Currently, as the ongoing Covid-19 wave in the US is showing signs of slowing down, health authorities are expressing concern about the emergence of a new Covid variant named XEC. This variant, which is a recombination of two closely related strains (KS.1.1 and KP.3.3) derived from the JN.1 strain, is anticipated to spread more easily due to its numerous additional mutations. With colder weather approaching, there is worry about the potential rapid spread of XEC across the country.

Here are six key points you should know about the new Covid variant XEC:

1. Increased Infectivity: Experts suggest that the XEC variant is more transmissible than previous strains due to its multiple mutations. Maintaining social distancing and practicing good hygiene habits are crucial to prevent infections.

2. Global Spread: While originating in Germany, the XEC variant is now spreading rapidly in several countries including the US, UK, and China, with reports of cases in 27 countries, including Poland, Norway, Luxembourg, Ukraine, and Portugal.

3. Mild Symptoms: Symptoms associated with XEC, similar to those of the Omicron variant, are generally mild and include fever, cough, sore throat, loss of taste or smell, among others.

4. Vaccine Efficacy: The new Covid-19 vaccine is built on the KP.2 strain, however, the virus is evolving swiftly, possibly outpacing vaccine development. The efficacy of the latest Covid vaccine against XEC remains uncertain, but it may still offer protection against severe illness for vulnerable populations.

5. Possible Dominance in Winter: The XEC variant may become the dominant strain in the upcoming winter months, posing a significant challenge for containment efforts.Eric Topol, director of the Scripps Research Translational Institute in La Jolla, suggests that a specific variant is most likely to become dominant soon, leading to faster spread. It is believed that in the upcoming months, this variant will gain traction and spread more rapidly. The recombinant XEC is a combination of KS.1.1 and KP.3.3, which are derived from the JN.1 strain. KS.1.1 is classified as one of the FLiRT variants contributing to increased case numbers globally, while KP.3.3 is a variation of the FLuQE strain. This variant has a spike protein mutation that enhances its ability to bind to human cells.

In the fight against Covid-19, it is important to adhere to basic preventive measures such as avoiding crowded places, maintaining social distancing, frequently washing hands, and wearing masks in crowded areas. Additionally, boosting immunity naturally by consuming a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and protein is crucial. Recent Russian shelling in Eastern Ukraine resulted in the deaths of seven individuals, with both countries intercepting multiple missiles and drones.