While the current surge of Covid-19 in the US is slowing down, the emergence of a new Covid variant XEC has raised concerns among health authorities as colder weather approaches. This recombinant strain, a hybrid of closely related variants KS.1.1 and KP.3.3, both stemming from the JN.1 strain, is collectively known as XEC and is anticipated to potentially spread more rapidly with its additional mutations. The presence of new variants suggests that Covid-19 is far from dissipating. Here are 6 key points to keep in mind about the new Covid variant XEC:

1. Increased Infectiousness: Experts indicate that the new variant XEC, with its numerous mutations, is more infectious than previous strains. It is crucial to adhere to social distancing and proper hygiene practices to reduce the risk of infection.

2. Global Spread: Although originating in Germany, the XEC variant is rapidly spreading in countries including the US, UK, and China, with a presence in 27 countries so far. Cases have been identified in various nations, such as Poland, Norway, Luxembourg, Ukraine, and Portugal, with 23 cases currently in the US, including three in California.

3. Mild Symptoms: Despite emerging from Omicron, the symptoms associated with the new variants, including XEC, remain similar and generally mild. Common symptoms include fever or chills, cough, sore throat, runny nose, loss of taste or smell, breathing difficulties, muscle and body aches, headache, nausea, and diarrhea.

4. Vaccine Effectiveness: The latest Covid-19 vaccine is based on the KP.2 strain of the virus. However, the virus is evolving at a faster rate than vaccines are being updated. While the effectiveness of the current Covid vaccine against XEC is uncertain, it still offers protection to vulnerable populations against severe disease and hospitalization.

5. Potential Dominance: Experts warn that XEC may become the predominant variant during the winter months.Eric Topol, director of the Scripps Research Translational Institute in La Jolla, believes that a particular variant is likely to become more prevalent and widespread in the near future. Experts anticipate that this variant will gain traction and spread more rapidly in the coming months. This variant is a recombinant of KS.1.1 and KP.3.3 strains, which are descendants of the JN.1 strain. KS.1.1 is classified as a FLiRT variant contributing to a rise in cases globally, while KP.3.3 is a FLuQE variant with specific spike protein mutations that enhance its binding to human cells. When it comes to preventing Covid-19 infections, it is crucial to adhere to basic protective measures such as avoiding large gatherings, maintaining physical distance, frequent hand washing, and wearing masks in crowded areas. Additionally, enhancing immunity through a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and protein is essential. Recent developments include Russian shelling resulting in casualties in Eastern Ukraine, along with interceptions of missiles and drones by both countries.