The number of cases of the highly contagious XEC strain of coronavirus is on the rise throughout the UK, and there are four key symptoms to watch out for.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has warned that the variant, which is a combination of the KS.1.1 and KP. 3.3 strains are spreading across the country.
It was first identified in Germany and has since been detected in 27 countries across North America, Asia and Europe. Gloucestershire Live reports The Independent states the most recent data from the UKHSA shows an increase in hospital admissions.
They are up to 4.5 per 100,000 people in the week leading up to October 6, up from 3.7 the previous week. Dr Jamie Lopez Bernal, consultant epidemiologist at UKHSA, revealed that around 13 percent of Covid cases in the UK are caused by the XEC variant.
However, he reassured that “current information doesn’t suggest we should be more concerned about this variant,” He emphasised that vaccination remains the best protection.
And he said that the NHS advises anyone testing positive for Covid to avoid contact with others for at least five days and to stay away from vulnerable individuals for 10 days.
He added: “We are monitoring this closely and vaccination still offers the best protection. The XEC strain is believed to present similar cold and flu-like symptoms to previous variants, such as:
- A high temperature
- Aches
- Tiredness
- A cough or sore throat.
However, the NHS also lists headaches, a blocked or runny nose, loss of appetite, changes to smell or taste, diarrhoea, and nausea as potential symptoms
Booster jabs will be available until 20 December this year. They will be offered to those most vulnerable to Covid, including over-65s, people aged between six months and 64 years with health conditions that make them more vulnerable.
And people living in care homes for older people, and frontline health and social-care staff, including those in care homes for older people.
The NHS will contact eligible patients directly, but appointments can also be booked via the NHS App, GPs, pharmacies, drop-in clinics, or by calling 119. Those entitled to the flu jab will be offered this at the same time.
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