🕷️ Crawler Inspector

URL Lookup

Direct Parameter Lookup

Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 9 (from laksa015)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa009.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.newscientist.com/article/2448924-what-to-know-about-the-new-covid-19-xec-variant/\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.newscientist.com/article/2448924-what-to-know-about-the-new-covid-19-xec-variant/\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/www.newscientist.com\/article\/2448924-what-to-know-about-the-new-covid-19-xec-variant\/","crawl_time":1774916653,"first_indexed_time":1726869748,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"com,newscientist!www,\/article\/2448924-what-to-know-about-the-new-covid-19-xec-variant\/ s443","src_root_hash":"443924557768237609","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"XEC: What we know about the new covid-19 variant and its symptoms | New Scientist","meta_descriptions":["A new covid-19 variant called XEC may spread more easily than past variants, but current vaccines are still effective against it"],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"Covid-19 variant XEC may spread more easily than previous variants\nJarun Ontakrai\/Shutterstock\nA new\ncovid-19\nvariant called XEC has started to spread in many regions worldwide, primarily in Europe. Early evidence indicates that it may be transmitted more easily than past variants, but public health experts say it is very similar to previous ones and available vaccines work against it. Here is what we know about XEC so far.\nWhat is the new covid-19 XEC variant?\nXEC is a combination of two other SARS-CoV-2 variants known as KP.3.3 and KS.1.1. It formed when the two variants infected the same organism – such as a person – simultaneously, allowing them to share genetic material.\nXEC is a genetic offshoot of\nomicron\n, a highly transmissible variant that first emerged in South Africa in 2021. “You can think of these new variants as great-grandchildren or grandchildren of omicron,” says\nWilliam Schaffner\nat Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Tennessee. This means it shares many of the same characteristics as other omicron subvariants, such as spreading easily and causing less severe disease than the earliest SARS-CoV-2 strains.\nWhen and where was XEC identified?\nXEC was first identified in August among covid-19 samples collected in Berlin two months earlier.\nThe earliest cases of the variant occurred in Italy in May. However, these samples weren’t uploaded to an international database that tracks SARS-CoV-2 variants, called the\nGlobal Initiative on Sharing All Influenza Data\n(GISAID), until September.\nHow many cases of XEC are there?\nData from GISAID indicates that more than 600 cases of XEC have been reported across 27 nations, including the UK, Germany, Canada and the US. However, “not all countries consistently report data to GISAID, so the XEC variant is likely to be present in more countries”, says\nBhanu Bhatnagar\nat the World Health Organization Regional Office for Europe.\nThe variant is prevalent in Europe, where at least 13 nations have detected it, says Bhatnagar. So far, XEC constitutes about 8 per cent of all sequenced and reported samples from the continent this month, according to data from GISAID. By comparison, it made up about 4 per cent of samples in August. The most commonly sequenced variant in Europe is still KP.3.1.1 – which is also in the omicron family – at 48 per cent of all samples, says Bhatnagar.\nXEC is most widespread in France, comprising roughly 21 per cent of sequenced covid-19 samples. It is also gaining traction in Germany and the UK, where it represents 15 per cent and 8 per cent of sequenced samples, respectively, says\nFrancois Balloux\nat University College London.\nThe new variant has also been detected in the US, where it makes up roughly 1 per cent of cases, says Balloux. However, XEC hasn’t appeared on the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)\ncovid-19 variant tracker\n, which includes variants once they account for 1 per cent of all cases in a week.\nWhat are the symptoms of XEC?\nSo far, XEC causes the same symptoms as other covid-19 variants such as fever, muscle aches and pains, sore throat and cough. “We will have our ears open to learn whether there are possibly some distinctive features, clinically,” says Schaffner. “We doubt it, but we’re always open to that.”\nHow dangerous is XEC?\nXEC doesn’t appear to be more dangerous or produce more severe disease than past covid-19 variants, says Schaffner. The WHO hasn’t designated it as a variant of concern either. That is because it shares many of the same characteristics as other omicron subvariants, like causing more mild illness than earlier strains, says Schaffner.\nIs XEC more transmissible?\nIt is too early to say whether XEC is more transmissible than other variants, says\nJames Fielding\nat the WHO. Given it has gained a foothold among other circulating variants, however, it may have an advantage that makes it spread more easily.\nFor instance, a preliminary analysis from Mike Honey, a data specialist based in Melbourne, Australia, suggests that XEC will become the dominant variant in\nEurope\nand the\nUK\nin October. He predicts the same will occur in the\nUS\nand\nCanada\nlater that month or in November.\n“How widely [spread] this particular strain will become, I think we just have to wait and see,” says Schaffner.\nDo covid-19 vaccines still work against XEC?\nThe good news is that current covid-19 vaccines are expected to protect against XEC, says Schaffner. This is because updated versions target\nomicron subvariants\n.\nThe\nCDC\nrecommends that everyone aged 6 months or older receive an updated covid-19 booster if they haven’t done so this year. In the\nUK\n, updated vaccines are available to people who are 75 and older, as well as those who live in senior care facilities or have a weakened immune system.\nUltimately, Schaffner says there is no reason to panic about XEC. “The virus is just getting going, but it appears to be following the same pattern [as past ones]” he says. “My response is: same old, same old.”\nTopics:","attrs_markdown":"Close\n\nAdvertisement\n\n[Skip to content](https:\/\/www.newscientist.com\/article\/2448924-what-to-know-about-the-new-covid-19-xec-variant\/#first-link)\n\n[Sign in](https:\/\/www.newscientist.com\/login\/ \"Sign In page link\")\n\nLight\n\n- [Curiosity engine](https:\/\/www.newscientist.com\/curiosity-engine)\n- [Events](https:\/\/www.newscientist.com\/science-events\/)\n- [Tours](https:\/\/www.newscientist.com\/tours\/)\n- [Shop](https:\/\/shop.newscientist.com\/)\n\n[Subscribe now](https:\/\/subscription.newscientist.com\/packages\/p\/cms\/TB)\n\n### Explore by section\n- [News](https:\/\/www.newscientist.com\/section\/news\/)\n- [Features](https:\/\/www.newscientist.com\/section\/features\/)\n- [Newsletters](https:\/\/www.newscientist.com\/sign-up\/)\n- [Podcasts](https:\/\/www.newscientist.com\/podcasts\/)\n- [Video](https:\/\/www.newscientist.com\/video\/)\n- [Comment](https:\/\/www.newscientist.com\/section\/comment\/)\n- [Culture](https:\/\/www.newscientist.com\/section\/culture\/)\n- [Games](https:\/\/www.newscientist.com\/games\/)\n- \\|\n- [This week's magazine](https:\/\/www.newscientist.com\/issues\/current\/)\n\n### Explore by subject\n- [Health](https:\/\/www.newscientist.com\/subject\/health\/)\n- [Space](https:\/\/www.newscientist.com\/subject\/space\/)\n- [Physics](https:\/\/www.newscientist.com\/subject\/physics\/)\n- [Technology](https:\/\/www.newscientist.com\/subject\/technology\/)\n- [Environment](https:\/\/www.newscientist.com\/subject\/environment\/)\n- [Mind](https:\/\/www.newscientist.com\/subject\/mind\/)\n- [Humans](https:\/\/www.newscientist.com\/subject\/humans\/)\n- [Life](https:\/\/www.newscientist.com\/subject\/life\/)\n- [Mathematics](https:\/\/www.newscientist.com\/subject\/mathematics\/)\n- [Chemistry](https:\/\/www.newscientist.com\/subject\/chemistry\/)\n- [Earth](https:\/\/www.newscientist.com\/subject\/earth\/)\n- [Society](https:\/\/www.newscientist.com\/subject\/society\/)\n\n### Explore our products and services\n- [Curiosity engine](https:\/\/www.newscientist.com\/curiosity-engine)\n- [Events](https:\/\/www.newscientist.com\/science-events\/)\n- [Tours](https:\/\/www.newscientist.com\/tours\/)\n- [Shop](https:\/\/shop.newscientist.com\/)\n\n[Subscribe now](https:\/\/subscription.newscientist.com\/packages\/p\/cms\/TB)\n\n[Subscribe now](https:\/\/subscription.newscientist.com\/packages\/p\/cms\/TB)\n\n#### [Health](https:\/\/www.newscientist.com\/subject\/health\/)\n# What to know about the new covid-19 XEC variant\nA new covid-19 variant called XEC may spread more easily than past variants, but current vaccines are still effective against it\n\nBy [Grace Wade](https:\/\/www.newscientist.com\/author\/grace-wade\/)\n\n20 September 2024\n\n![](https:\/\/images.newscientist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/19200712\/SEI_222321600.jpg)\n\nCovid-19 variant XEC may spread more easily than previous variants\n\nJarun Ontakrai\/Shutterstock\n\nA new [covid-19](https:\/\/www.newscientist.com\/definition\/covid-19\/) variant called XEC has started to spread in many regions worldwide, primarily in Europe. Early evidence indicates that it may be transmitted more easily than past variants, but public health experts say it is very similar to previous ones and available vaccines work against it. Here is what we know about XEC so far.\n\n[Read moreWhy do covid cases rise in summer, unlike other respiratory viruses?](https:\/\/www.newscientist.com\/article\/2445029-why-do-covid-cases-rise-in-summer-unlike-other-respiratory-viruses\/)\n\n## What is the new covid-19 XEC variant?\nXEC is a combination of two other SARS-CoV-2 variants known as KP.3.3 and KS.1.1. It formed when the two variants infected the same organism – such as a person – simultaneously, allowing them to share genetic material.\n\nAdvertisement\n\nXEC is a genetic offshoot of [omicron](https:\/\/www.newscientist.com\/article\/2299194-omicron-how-dangerous-is-the-new-variant-first-found-in-south-africa\/), a highly transmissible variant that first emerged in South Africa in 2021. “You can think of these new variants as great-grandchildren or grandchildren of omicron,” says [William Schaffner](https:\/\/www.vumc.org\/health-policy\/person\/william-schaffner-md) at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Tennessee. This means it shares many of the same characteristics as other omicron subvariants, such as spreading easily and causing less severe disease than the earliest SARS-CoV-2 strains.\n\n## When and where was XEC identified?\nXEC was first identified in August among covid-19 samples collected in Berlin two months earlier.\n\nThe earliest cases of the variant occurred in Italy in May. However, these samples weren’t uploaded to an international database that tracks SARS-CoV-2 variants, called the [Global Initiative on Sharing All Influenza Data](https:\/\/gisaid.org\/) (GISAID), until September.\n\nFree newsletter\n\n#### Sign up to Eight Weeks to a Healthier You\nYour science-backed guide to the easy habits that will help you sleep well, stress less, eat smarter and age better.\n\n[Sign up to newsletter](https:\/\/www.newscientist.com\/sign-up\/healthier-you\/)\n\n![New Scientist. Science news and long reads from expert journalists, covering developments in science, technology, health and the environment on the website and the magazine.](https:\/\/images.newscientist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/16170655\/healthier-you-cms-panel.png)\n## How many cases of XEC are there?\nData from GISAID indicates that more than 600 cases of XEC have been reported across 27 nations, including the UK, Germany, Canada and the US. However, “not all countries consistently report data to GISAID, so the XEC variant is likely to be present in more countries”, says [Bhanu Bhatnagar](https:\/\/www.who.int\/europe\/news-room\/media-contacts\/bhanu-bhatnagar) at the World Health Organization Regional Office for Europe.\n\nThe variant is prevalent in Europe, where at least 13 nations have detected it, says Bhatnagar. So far, XEC constitutes about 8 per cent of all sequenced and reported samples from the continent this month, according to data from GISAID. By comparison, it made up about 4 per cent of samples in August. The most commonly sequenced variant in Europe is still KP.3.1.1 – which is also in the omicron family – at 48 per cent of all samples, says Bhatnagar.\n\nXEC is most widespread in France, comprising roughly 21 per cent of sequenced covid-19 samples. It is also gaining traction in Germany and the UK, where it represents 15 per cent and 8 per cent of sequenced samples, respectively, says [Francois Balloux](https:\/\/www.ucl.ac.uk\/biosciences\/people\/francois-balloux) at University College London.\n\nThe new variant has also been detected in the US, where it makes up roughly 1 per cent of cases, says Balloux. However, XEC hasn’t appeared on the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) [covid-19 variant tracker](https:\/\/covid.cdc.gov\/covid-data-tracker\/#variant-proportions), which includes variants once they account for 1 per cent of all cases in a week.\n\n## What are the symptoms of XEC?\nSo far, XEC causes the same symptoms as other covid-19 variants such as fever, muscle aches and pains, sore throat and cough. “We will have our ears open to learn whether there are possibly some distinctive features, clinically,” says Schaffner. “We doubt it, but we’re always open to that.”\n\n## How dangerous is XEC?\nXEC doesn’t appear to be more dangerous or produce more severe disease than past covid-19 variants, says Schaffner. The WHO hasn’t designated it as a variant of concern either. That is because it shares many of the same characteristics as other omicron subvariants, like causing more mild illness than earlier strains, says Schaffner.\n\n## Is XEC more transmissible?\nIt is too early to say whether XEC is more transmissible than other variants, says [James Fielding](https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/james-fielding-037772159\/?originalSubdomain=dk) at the WHO. Given it has gained a foothold among other circulating variants, however, it may have an advantage that makes it spread more easily.\n\nFor instance, a preliminary analysis from Mike Honey, a data specialist based in Melbourne, Australia, suggests that XEC will become the dominant variant in [Europe](https:\/\/x.com\/Mike_Honey_\/status\/1837114711072198686) and the [UK](https:\/\/x.com\/mike_honey_) in October. He predicts the same will occur in the [US](https:\/\/x.com\/Mike_Honey_\/status\/1837109804034314372) and [Canada](https:\/\/x.com\/Mike_Honey_\/status\/1837110495985422519) later that month or in November.\n\n“How widely \\[spread\\] this particular strain will become, I think we just have to wait and see,” says Schaffner.\n\n[Read moreWe finally know why some people seem immune to catching covid-19](https:\/\/www.newscientist.com\/article\/2436182-we-finally-know-why-some-people-seem-immune-to-catching-covid-19\/)\n\n## Do covid-19 vaccines still work against XEC?\nThe good news is that current covid-19 vaccines are expected to protect against XEC, says Schaffner. This is because updated versions target [omicron subvariants](https:\/\/www.newscientist.com\/article\/2404392-covid-19-vaccines-should-target-only-omicron-for-best-immune-response\/).\n\nThe [CDC](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/covid\/vaccines\/stay-up-to-date.html#:~:text=Everyone%20ages%206%20months%20and%20older%20should%20get%20the%202024,who%20have%20had%20COVID-19.) recommends that everyone aged 6 months or older receive an updated covid-19 booster if they haven’t done so this year. In the [UK](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/covid-19-vaccination-spring-booster-resources\/a-guide-to-the-covid-19-spring-booster-2023), updated vaccines are available to people who are 75 and older, as well as those who live in senior care facilities or have a weakened immune system.\n\nUltimately, Schaffner says there is no reason to panic about XEC. “The virus is just getting going, but it appears to be following the same pattern \\[as past ones\\]” he says. “My response is: same old, same old.”\n\nTopics:\n\n- [infectious disease](https:\/\/www.newscientist.com\/article-topic\/infectious-disease\/)\/\n- [covid-19](https:\/\/www.newscientist.com\/article-topic\/covid-19\/)\/\n- [public health](https:\/\/www.newscientist.com\/article-topic\/public-health\/)\n\nAdvertisement\n\n## Sign up to our weekly newsletter\nReceive a weekly dose of discovery in your inbox. We'll also keep you up to date with  *New Scientist*  events and special offers.\n\n[Sign up](https:\/\/www.newscientist.com\/sign-up\/weekly)\n\n## More from *New Scientist*\nExplore the latest news, articles and features\n\n[![The collaborative Human Challenge study is the first in the world to perform detailed monitoring over the full course of COVID-19, from the moment a person first encounters SARS-CoV-2, throughout the infection to the point at which the virus is apparently eliminated. The Human Challenge Programme is a partnership between Imperial College London, the Vaccine Taskforce and Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC), hVIVO (part of Open Orphan plc.), and the Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust.](https:\/\/images.newscientist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/20115355\/SEI_274915530.jpg) Health How deliberately giving people illnesses is supercharging medicine Features](https:\/\/www.newscientist.com\/article\/2505159-how-deliberately-giving-people-illnesses-is-supercharging-medicine\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/images.newscientist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/28190829\/SEI_272132406.jpg) Health US public health system is flying blind after major cuts Analysis](https:\/\/www.newscientist.com\/article\/2501714-us-public-health-system-is-flying-blind-after-major-cuts\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/images.newscientist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/16202603\/SEI_266323849.jpg) Health Global suicide rates fell 30 per cent since 1990 – but not in the US Analysis](https:\/\/www.newscientist.com\/article\/2496424-global-suicide-rates-fell-30-per-cent-since-1990-but-not-in-the-us\/)\n\n[![A child in Peru takes candy from a shelf](https:\/\/images.newscientist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/12153847\/SEI_265718466.jpg) Health Child obesity is now more common than undernutrition – what do we do? Analysis](https:\/\/www.newscientist.com\/article\/2496086-child-obesity-is-now-more-common-than-undernutrition-what-do-we-do\/)\n\n#### Popular articles\nTrending *New Scientist* articles\n\n[1 The Shroud of Turin bears DNA from many people, plants and animals](https:\/\/www.newscientist.com\/article\/2521236-the-shroud-of-turin-bears-dna-from-many-people-plants-and-animals\/)\n\n[2 Surprising male G-spot found in most detailed study of the penis yet](https:\/\/www.newscientist.com\/article\/2520982-surprising-male-g-spot-found-in-most-detailed-study-of-the-penis-yet\/)\n\n[3 The weird physics of plant-based milks is only just coming to light](https:\/\/www.newscientist.com\/article\/2521037-the-weird-physics-of-plant-based-milks-is-only-just-coming-to-light\/)\n\n[4 AI data centres can warm surrounding areas by up to 9.1°C](https:\/\/www.newscientist.com\/article\/2521256-ai-data-centres-can-warm-surrounding-areas-by-up-to-9-1c\/)\n\n[5 Why the lack of water on Mars is so mysterious](https:\/\/www.newscientist.com\/article\/2521185-why-the-lack-of-water-on-mars-is-so-mysterious\/)\n\n[6 Brutal Iron Age massacre may have targeted women and children](https:\/\/www.newscientist.com\/article\/2516527-brutal-iron-age-massacre-may-have-targeted-women-and-children\/)\n\n[7 Computer finds flaw in major physics paper for first time](https:\/\/www.newscientist.com\/article\/2520546-computer-finds-flaw-in-major-physics-paper-for-first-time\/)\n\n[8 The profound effect the heart-brain connection has on your health](https:\/\/www.newscientist.com\/article\/2519667-the-profound-effect-the-heart-brain-connection-has-on-your-health\/)\n\n[9 The Selfish Gene: Still one of the most thrilling evolution books ever](https:\/\/www.newscientist.com\/article\/2519896-the-selfish-gene-still-one-of-the-most-thrilling-evolution-books-ever\/)\n\n[10 The real reasons birth rates are declining 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for us](https:\/\/www.newscientist.com\/freelancers\/)\n\n#### Tools\n- [Events](https:\/\/www.newscientist.com\/science-events\/)\n- [CoLab](https:\/\/colab.newscientist.com\/)\n- [Syndication](https:\/\/www.newscientist.com\/in216-syndication-information\/)\n- [RSS feeds](https:\/\/www.newscientist.com\/rss-feeds\/)\n\n#### Legal and privacy\n- [Complaint policy](https:\/\/www.newscientist.com\/complaint-policy\/)\n- [Privacy policy](https:\/\/www.newscientist.com\/privacy\/)\n- [Cookie policy](https:\/\/www.newscientist.com\/cookie-policy\/)\n- [Terms & conditions](https:\/\/www.newscientist.com\/terms\/)\n- Cookie Settings\n\n#### © Copyright New Scientist Ltd.\nBack to the top","attrs_readable_markdown":"![](https:\/\/images.newscientist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/19200712\/SEI_222321600.jpg)\n\nCovid-19 variant XEC may spread more easily than previous variants\n\nJarun Ontakrai\/Shutterstock\n\nA new [covid-19](https:\/\/www.newscientist.com\/definition\/covid-19\/) variant called XEC has started to spread in many regions worldwide, primarily in Europe. Early evidence indicates that it may be transmitted more easily than past variants, but public health experts say it is very similar to previous ones and available vaccines work against it. Here is what we know about XEC so far.\n\n## What is the new covid-19 XEC variant?\nXEC is a combination of two other SARS-CoV-2 variants known as KP.3.3 and KS.1.1. It formed when the two variants infected the same organism – such as a person – simultaneously, allowing them to share genetic material.\n\nXEC is a genetic offshoot of [omicron](https:\/\/www.newscientist.com\/article\/2299194-omicron-how-dangerous-is-the-new-variant-first-found-in-south-africa\/), a highly transmissible variant that first emerged in South Africa in 2021. “You can think of these new variants as great-grandchildren or grandchildren of omicron,” says [William Schaffner](https:\/\/www.vumc.org\/health-policy\/person\/william-schaffner-md) at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Tennessee. This means it shares many of the same characteristics as other omicron subvariants, such as spreading easily and causing less severe disease than the earliest SARS-CoV-2 strains.\n\n## When and where was XEC identified?\nXEC was first identified in August among covid-19 samples collected in Berlin two months earlier.\n\nThe earliest cases of the variant occurred in Italy in May. However, these samples weren’t uploaded to an international database that tracks SARS-CoV-2 variants, called the [Global Initiative on Sharing All Influenza Data](https:\/\/gisaid.org\/) (GISAID), until September.\n\n## How many cases of XEC are there?\nData from GISAID indicates that more than 600 cases of XEC have been reported across 27 nations, including the UK, Germany, Canada and the US. However, “not all countries consistently report data to GISAID, so the XEC variant is likely to be present in more countries”, says [Bhanu Bhatnagar](https:\/\/www.who.int\/europe\/news-room\/media-contacts\/bhanu-bhatnagar) at the World Health Organization Regional Office for Europe.\n\nThe variant is prevalent in Europe, where at least 13 nations have detected it, says Bhatnagar. So far, XEC constitutes about 8 per cent of all sequenced and reported samples from the continent this month, according to data from GISAID. By comparison, it made up about 4 per cent of samples in August. The most commonly sequenced variant in Europe is still KP.3.1.1 – which is also in the omicron family – at 48 per cent of all samples, says Bhatnagar.\n\nXEC is most widespread in France, comprising roughly 21 per cent of sequenced covid-19 samples. It is also gaining traction in Germany and the UK, where it represents 15 per cent and 8 per cent of sequenced samples, respectively, says [Francois Balloux](https:\/\/www.ucl.ac.uk\/biosciences\/people\/francois-balloux) at University College London.\n\nThe new variant has also been detected in the US, where it makes up roughly 1 per cent of cases, says Balloux. However, XEC hasn’t appeared on the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) [covid-19 variant tracker](https:\/\/covid.cdc.gov\/covid-data-tracker\/#variant-proportions), which includes variants once they account for 1 per cent of all cases in a week.\n\n## What are the symptoms of XEC?\nSo far, XEC causes the same symptoms as other covid-19 variants such as fever, muscle aches and pains, sore throat and cough. “We will have our ears open to learn whether there are possibly some distinctive features, clinically,” says Schaffner. “We doubt it, but we’re always open to that.”\n\n## How dangerous is XEC?\nXEC doesn’t appear to be more dangerous or produce more severe disease than past covid-19 variants, says Schaffner. The WHO hasn’t designated it as a variant of concern either. That is because it shares many of the same characteristics as other omicron subvariants, like causing more mild illness than earlier strains, says Schaffner.\n\n## Is XEC more transmissible?\nIt is too early to say whether XEC is more transmissible than other variants, says [James Fielding](https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/james-fielding-037772159\/?originalSubdomain=dk) at the WHO. Given it has gained a foothold among other circulating variants, however, it may have an advantage that makes it spread more easily.\n\nFor instance, a preliminary analysis from Mike Honey, a data specialist based in Melbourne, Australia, suggests that XEC will become the dominant variant in [Europe](https:\/\/x.com\/Mike_Honey_\/status\/1837114711072198686) and the [UK](https:\/\/x.com\/mike_honey_) in October. He predicts the same will occur in the [US](https:\/\/x.com\/Mike_Honey_\/status\/1837109804034314372) and [Canada](https:\/\/x.com\/Mike_Honey_\/status\/1837110495985422519) later that month or in November.\n\n“How widely \\[spread\\] this particular strain will become, I think we just have to wait and see,” says Schaffner.\n\n## Do covid-19 vaccines still work against XEC?\nThe good news is that current covid-19 vaccines are expected to protect against XEC, says Schaffner. This is because updated versions target [omicron subvariants](https:\/\/www.newscientist.com\/article\/2404392-covid-19-vaccines-should-target-only-omicron-for-best-immune-response\/).\n\nThe [CDC](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/covid\/vaccines\/stay-up-to-date.html#:~:text=Everyone%20ages%206%20months%20and%20older%20should%20get%20the%202024,who%20have%20had%20COVID-19.) recommends that everyone aged 6 months or older receive an updated covid-19 booster if they haven’t done so this year. In the [UK](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/covid-19-vaccination-spring-booster-resources\/a-guide-to-the-covid-19-spring-booster-2023), updated vaccines are available to people who are 75 and older, as well as those who live in senior care facilities or have a weakened immune system.\n\nUltimately, Schaffner says there is no reason to panic about XEC. “The virus is just getting going, but it appears to be following the same pattern \\[as past ones\\]” he says. “My response is: same old, same old.”\n\nTopics:","meta_canonical":null}

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Meta Description	A new covid-19 variant called XEC may spread more easily than past variants, but current vaccines are still effective against it
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Boilerpipe Text	Covid-19 variant XEC may spread more easily than previous variants Jarun Ontakrai/Shutterstock A new covid-19 variant called XEC has started to spread in many regions worldwide, primarily in Europe. Early evidence indicates that it may be transmitted more easily than past variants, but public health experts say it is very similar to previous ones and available vaccines work against it. Here is what we know about XEC so far. What is the new covid-19 XEC variant? XEC is a combination of two other SARS-CoV-2 variants known as KP.3.3 and KS.1.1. It formed when the two variants infected the same organism – such as a person – simultaneously, allowing them to share genetic material. XEC is a genetic offshoot of omicron , a highly transmissible variant that first emerged in South Africa in 2021. “You can think of these new variants as great-grandchildren or grandchildren of omicron,” says William Schaffner at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Tennessee. This means it shares many of the same characteristics as other omicron subvariants, such as spreading easily and causing less severe disease than the earliest SARS-CoV-2 strains. When and where was XEC identified? XEC was first identified in August among covid-19 samples collected in Berlin two months earlier. The earliest cases of the variant occurred in Italy in May. However, these samples weren’t uploaded to an international database that tracks SARS-CoV-2 variants, called the Global Initiative on Sharing All Influenza Data (GISAID), until September. How many cases of XEC are there? Data from GISAID indicates that more than 600 cases of XEC have been reported across 27 nations, including the UK, Germany, Canada and the US. However, “not all countries consistently report data to GISAID, so the XEC variant is likely to be present in more countries”, says Bhanu Bhatnagar at the World Health Organization Regional Office for Europe. The variant is prevalent in Europe, where at least 13 nations have detected it, says Bhatnagar. So far, XEC constitutes about 8 per cent of all sequenced and reported samples from the continent this month, according to data from GISAID. By comparison, it made up about 4 per cent of samples in August. The most commonly sequenced variant in Europe is still KP.3.1.1 – which is also in the omicron family – at 48 per cent of all samples, says Bhatnagar. XEC is most widespread in France, comprising roughly 21 per cent of sequenced covid-19 samples. It is also gaining traction in Germany and the UK, where it represents 15 per cent and 8 per cent of sequenced samples, respectively, says Francois Balloux at University College London. The new variant has also been detected in the US, where it makes up roughly 1 per cent of cases, says Balloux. However, XEC hasn’t appeared on the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) covid-19 variant tracker , which includes variants once they account for 1 per cent of all cases in a week. What are the symptoms of XEC? So far, XEC causes the same symptoms as other covid-19 variants such as fever, muscle aches and pains, sore throat and cough. “We will have our ears open to learn whether there are possibly some distinctive features, clinically,” says Schaffner. “We doubt it, but we’re always open to that.” How dangerous is XEC? XEC doesn’t appear to be more dangerous or produce more severe disease than past covid-19 variants, says Schaffner. The WHO hasn’t designated it as a variant of concern either. That is because it shares many of the same characteristics as other omicron subvariants, like causing more mild illness than earlier strains, says Schaffner. Is XEC more transmissible? It is too early to say whether XEC is more transmissible than other variants, says James Fielding at the WHO. Given it has gained a foothold among other circulating variants, however, it may have an advantage that makes it spread more easily. For instance, a preliminary analysis from Mike Honey, a data specialist based in Melbourne, Australia, suggests that XEC will become the dominant variant in Europe and the UK in October. He predicts the same will occur in the US and Canada later that month or in November. “How widely [spread] this particular strain will become, I think we just have to wait and see,” says Schaffner. Do covid-19 vaccines still work against XEC? The good news is that current covid-19 vaccines are expected to protect against XEC, says Schaffner. This is because updated versions target omicron subvariants . The CDC recommends that everyone aged 6 months or older receive an updated covid-19 booster if they haven’t done so this year. In the UK , updated vaccines are available to people who are 75 and older, as well as those who live in senior care facilities or have a weakened immune system. Ultimately, Schaffner says there is no reason to panic about XEC. “The virus is just getting going, but it appears to be following the same pattern [as past ones]” he says. “My response is: same old, same old.” Topics:
Markdown	Close Advertisement [Skip to content](https://www.newscientist.com/article/2448924-what-to-know-about-the-new-covid-19-xec-variant/#first-link) [Sign in](https://www.newscientist.com/login/ "Sign In page link") Light - [Curiosity engine](https://www.newscientist.com/curiosity-engine) - [Events](https://www.newscientist.com/science-events/) - [Tours](https://www.newscientist.com/tours/) - [Shop](https://shop.newscientist.com/) [Subscribe now](https://subscription.newscientist.com/packages/p/cms/TB) ### Explore by section - [News](https://www.newscientist.com/section/news/) - [Features](https://www.newscientist.com/section/features/) - [Newsletters](https://www.newscientist.com/sign-up/) - [Podcasts](https://www.newscientist.com/podcasts/) - [Video](https://www.newscientist.com/video/) - [Comment](https://www.newscientist.com/section/comment/) - [Culture](https://www.newscientist.com/section/culture/) - [Games](https://www.newscientist.com/games/) - \\| - [This week's magazine](https://www.newscientist.com/issues/current/) ### Explore by subject - [Health](https://www.newscientist.com/subject/health/) - [Space](https://www.newscientist.com/subject/space/) - [Physics](https://www.newscientist.com/subject/physics/) - [Technology](https://www.newscientist.com/subject/technology/) - [Environment](https://www.newscientist.com/subject/environment/) - [Mind](https://www.newscientist.com/subject/mind/) - [Humans](https://www.newscientist.com/subject/humans/) - [Life](https://www.newscientist.com/subject/life/) - [Mathematics](https://www.newscientist.com/subject/mathematics/) - [Chemistry](https://www.newscientist.com/subject/chemistry/) - [Earth](https://www.newscientist.com/subject/earth/) - [Society](https://www.newscientist.com/subject/society/) ### Explore our products and services - [Curiosity engine](https://www.newscientist.com/curiosity-engine) - [Events](https://www.newscientist.com/science-events/) - [Tours](https://www.newscientist.com/tours/) - [Shop](https://shop.newscientist.com/) [Subscribe now](https://subscription.newscientist.com/packages/p/cms/TB) [Subscribe now](https://subscription.newscientist.com/packages/p/cms/TB) #### [Health](https://www.newscientist.com/subject/health/) # What to know about the new covid-19 XEC variant A new covid-19 variant called XEC may spread more easily than past variants, but current vaccines are still effective against it By [Grace Wade](https://www.newscientist.com/author/grace-wade/) 20 September 2024 ![](https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/19200712/SEI_222321600.jpg) Covid-19 variant XEC may spread more easily than previous variants Jarun Ontakrai/Shutterstock A new [covid-19](https://www.newscientist.com/definition/covid-19/) variant called XEC has started to spread in many regions worldwide, primarily in Europe. Early evidence indicates that it may be transmitted more easily than past variants, but public health experts say it is very similar to previous ones and available vaccines work against it. Here is what we know about XEC so far. [Read moreWhy do covid cases rise in summer, unlike other respiratory viruses?](https://www.newscientist.com/article/2445029-why-do-covid-cases-rise-in-summer-unlike-other-respiratory-viruses/) ## What is the new covid-19 XEC variant? XEC is a combination of two other SARS-CoV-2 variants known as KP.3.3 and KS.1.1. It formed when the two variants infected the same organism – such as a person – simultaneously, allowing them to share genetic material. Advertisement XEC is a genetic offshoot of [omicron](https://www.newscientist.com/article/2299194-omicron-how-dangerous-is-the-new-variant-first-found-in-south-africa/), a highly transmissible variant that first emerged in South Africa in 2021. “You can think of these new variants as great-grandchildren or grandchildren of omicron,” says [William Schaffner](https://www.vumc.org/health-policy/person/william-schaffner-md) at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Tennessee. This means it shares many of the same characteristics as other omicron subvariants, such as spreading easily and causing less severe disease than the earliest SARS-CoV-2 strains. ## When and where was XEC identified? XEC was first identified in August among covid-19 samples collected in Berlin two months earlier. The earliest cases of the variant occurred in Italy in May. However, these samples weren’t uploaded to an international database that tracks SARS-CoV-2 variants, called the [Global Initiative on Sharing All Influenza Data](https://gisaid.org/) (GISAID), until September. Free newsletter #### Sign up to Eight Weeks to a Healthier You Your science-backed guide to the easy habits that will help you sleep well, stress less, eat smarter and age better. [Sign up to newsletter](https://www.newscientist.com/sign-up/healthier-you/) ![New Scientist. Science news and long reads from expert journalists, covering developments in science, technology, health and the environment on the website and the magazine.](https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/16170655/healthier-you-cms-panel.png) ## How many cases of XEC are there? Data from GISAID indicates that more than 600 cases of XEC have been reported across 27 nations, including the UK, Germany, Canada and the US. However, “not all countries consistently report data to GISAID, so the XEC variant is likely to be present in more countries”, says [Bhanu Bhatnagar](https://www.who.int/europe/news-room/media-contacts/bhanu-bhatnagar) at the World Health Organization Regional Office for Europe. The variant is prevalent in Europe, where at least 13 nations have detected it, says Bhatnagar. So far, XEC constitutes about 8 per cent of all sequenced and reported samples from the continent this month, according to data from GISAID. By comparison, it made up about 4 per cent of samples in August. The most commonly sequenced variant in Europe is still KP.3.1.1 – which is also in the omicron family – at 48 per cent of all samples, says Bhatnagar. XEC is most widespread in France, comprising roughly 21 per cent of sequenced covid-19 samples. It is also gaining traction in Germany and the UK, where it represents 15 per cent and 8 per cent of sequenced samples, respectively, says [Francois Balloux](https://www.ucl.ac.uk/biosciences/people/francois-balloux) at University College London. The new variant has also been detected in the US, where it makes up roughly 1 per cent of cases, says Balloux. However, XEC hasn’t appeared on the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) [covid-19 variant tracker](https://covid.cdc.gov/covid-data-tracker/#variant-proportions), which includes variants once they account for 1 per cent of all cases in a week. ## What are the symptoms of XEC? So far, XEC causes the same symptoms as other covid-19 variants such as fever, muscle aches and pains, sore throat and cough. “We will have our ears open to learn whether there are possibly some distinctive features, clinically,” says Schaffner. “We doubt it, but we’re always open to that.” ## How dangerous is XEC? XEC doesn’t appear to be more dangerous or produce more severe disease than past covid-19 variants, says Schaffner. The WHO hasn’t designated it as a variant of concern either. That is because it shares many of the same characteristics as other omicron subvariants, like causing more mild illness than earlier strains, says Schaffner. ## Is XEC more transmissible? It is too early to say whether XEC is more transmissible than other variants, says [James Fielding](https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-fielding-037772159/?originalSubdomain=dk) at the WHO. Given it has gained a foothold among other circulating variants, however, it may have an advantage that makes it spread more easily. For instance, a preliminary analysis from Mike Honey, a data specialist based in Melbourne, Australia, suggests that XEC will become the dominant variant in [Europe](https://x.com/Mike_Honey_/status/1837114711072198686) and the [UK](https://x.com/mike_honey_) in October. He predicts the same will occur in the [US](https://x.com/Mike_Honey_/status/1837109804034314372) and [Canada](https://x.com/Mike_Honey_/status/1837110495985422519) later that month or in November. “How widely \[spread\] this particular strain will become, I think we just have to wait and see,” says Schaffner. [Read moreWe finally know why some people seem immune to catching covid-19](https://www.newscientist.com/article/2436182-we-finally-know-why-some-people-seem-immune-to-catching-covid-19/) ## Do covid-19 vaccines still work against XEC? The good news is that current covid-19 vaccines are expected to protect against XEC, says Schaffner. This is because updated versions target [omicron subvariants](https://www.newscientist.com/article/2404392-covid-19-vaccines-should-target-only-omicron-for-best-immune-response/). The [CDC](https://www.cdc.gov/covid/vaccines/stay-up-to-date.html#:~:text=Everyone%20ages%206%20months%20and%20older%20should%20get%20the%202024,who%20have%20had%20COVID-19.) recommends that everyone aged 6 months or older receive an updated covid-19 booster if they haven’t done so this year. In the [UK](https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/covid-19-vaccination-spring-booster-resources/a-guide-to-the-covid-19-spring-booster-2023), updated vaccines are available to people who are 75 and older, as well as those who live in senior care facilities or have a weakened immune system. Ultimately, Schaffner says there is no reason to panic about XEC. “The virus is just getting going, but it appears to be following the same pattern \[as past ones\]” he says. “My response is: same old, same old.” Topics: - [infectious disease](https://www.newscientist.com/article-topic/infectious-disease/)/ - [covid-19](https://www.newscientist.com/article-topic/covid-19/)/ - [public health](https://www.newscientist.com/article-topic/public-health/) Advertisement ## Sign up to our weekly newsletter Receive a weekly dose of discovery in your inbox. We'll also keep you up to date with New Scientist events and special offers. [Sign up](https://www.newscientist.com/sign-up/weekly) ## More from New Scientist Explore the latest news, articles and features [![The collaborative Human Challenge study is the first in the world to perform detailed monitoring over the full course of COVID-19, from the moment a person first encounters SARS-CoV-2, throughout the infection to the point at which the virus is apparently eliminated. The Human Challenge Programme is a partnership between Imperial College London, the Vaccine Taskforce and Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC), hVIVO (part of Open Orphan plc.), and the Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust.](https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/20115355/SEI_274915530.jpg) Health How deliberately giving people illnesses is supercharging medicine Features](https://www.newscientist.com/article/2505159-how-deliberately-giving-people-illnesses-is-supercharging-medicine/) [![](https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/28190829/SEI_272132406.jpg) Health US public health system is flying blind after major cuts Analysis](https://www.newscientist.com/article/2501714-us-public-health-system-is-flying-blind-after-major-cuts/) [![](https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/16202603/SEI_266323849.jpg) Health Global suicide rates fell 30 per cent since 1990 – but not in the US Analysis](https://www.newscientist.com/article/2496424-global-suicide-rates-fell-30-per-cent-since-1990-but-not-in-the-us/) [![A child in Peru takes candy from a shelf](https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/12153847/SEI_265718466.jpg) Health Child obesity is now more common than undernutrition – what do we do? Analysis](https://www.newscientist.com/article/2496086-child-obesity-is-now-more-common-than-undernutrition-what-do-we-do/) #### Popular articles Trending New Scientist articles [1 The Shroud of Turin bears DNA from many people, plants and animals](https://www.newscientist.com/article/2521236-the-shroud-of-turin-bears-dna-from-many-people-plants-and-animals/) [2 Surprising male G-spot found in most detailed study of the penis yet](https://www.newscientist.com/article/2520982-surprising-male-g-spot-found-in-most-detailed-study-of-the-penis-yet/) [3 The weird physics of plant-based milks is only just coming to light](https://www.newscientist.com/article/2521037-the-weird-physics-of-plant-based-milks-is-only-just-coming-to-light/) [4 AI data centres can warm surrounding areas by up to 9.1°C](https://www.newscientist.com/article/2521256-ai-data-centres-can-warm-surrounding-areas-by-up-to-9-1c/) [5 Why the lack of water on Mars is so mysterious](https://www.newscientist.com/article/2521185-why-the-lack-of-water-on-mars-is-so-mysterious/) [6 Brutal Iron Age massacre may have targeted women and children](https://www.newscientist.com/article/2516527-brutal-iron-age-massacre-may-have-targeted-women-and-children/) [7 Computer finds flaw in major physics paper for first time](https://www.newscientist.com/article/2520546-computer-finds-flaw-in-major-physics-paper-for-first-time/) [8 The profound effect the heart-brain connection has on your health](https://www.newscientist.com/article/2519667-the-profound-effect-the-heart-brain-connection-has-on-your-health/) [9 The Selfish Gene: Still one of the most thrilling evolution books ever](https://www.newscientist.com/article/2519896-the-selfish-gene-still-one-of-the-most-thrilling-evolution-books-ever/) [10 The real reasons birth rates are declining worldwide](https://www.newscientist.com/article/2516629-the-real-reasons-birth-rates-are-declining-worldwide/) Advertisement [![Piano End Banner](https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/17102106/new-scientist-social-meta-image.png)]() Close [![Piano Exit Overlay Banner Mobile](https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/17102106/new-scientist-social-meta-image.png) ![Piano Exit Overlay Banner Desktop](https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/17102106/new-scientist-social-meta-image.png)]() Close Download the app [![Download on the apple apps store](https://www.newscientist.com/build/images/footer/apple.691391b5.svg)](https://www.newscientist.com/article/2448924-what-to-know-about-the-new-covid-19-xec-variant/) [![Download on Google play](https://www.newscientist.com/build/images/footer/google.f217b9d7.svg)](https://www.newscientist.com/article/2448924-what-to-know-about-the-new-covid-19-xec-variant/) #### Find us on social media - 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Readable Markdown	![](https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/19200712/SEI_222321600.jpg) Covid-19 variant XEC may spread more easily than previous variants Jarun Ontakrai/Shutterstock A new [covid-19](https://www.newscientist.com/definition/covid-19/) variant called XEC has started to spread in many regions worldwide, primarily in Europe. Early evidence indicates that it may be transmitted more easily than past variants, but public health experts say it is very similar to previous ones and available vaccines work against it. Here is what we know about XEC so far. ## What is the new covid-19 XEC variant? XEC is a combination of two other SARS-CoV-2 variants known as KP.3.3 and KS.1.1. It formed when the two variants infected the same organism – such as a person – simultaneously, allowing them to share genetic material. XEC is a genetic offshoot of [omicron](https://www.newscientist.com/article/2299194-omicron-how-dangerous-is-the-new-variant-first-found-in-south-africa/), a highly transmissible variant that first emerged in South Africa in 2021. “You can think of these new variants as great-grandchildren or grandchildren of omicron,” says [William Schaffner](https://www.vumc.org/health-policy/person/william-schaffner-md) at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Tennessee. This means it shares many of the same characteristics as other omicron subvariants, such as spreading easily and causing less severe disease than the earliest SARS-CoV-2 strains. ## When and where was XEC identified? XEC was first identified in August among covid-19 samples collected in Berlin two months earlier. The earliest cases of the variant occurred in Italy in May. However, these samples weren’t uploaded to an international database that tracks SARS-CoV-2 variants, called the [Global Initiative on Sharing All Influenza Data](https://gisaid.org/) (GISAID), until September. ## How many cases of XEC are there? Data from GISAID indicates that more than 600 cases of XEC have been reported across 27 nations, including the UK, Germany, Canada and the US. However, “not all countries consistently report data to GISAID, so the XEC variant is likely to be present in more countries”, says [Bhanu Bhatnagar](https://www.who.int/europe/news-room/media-contacts/bhanu-bhatnagar) at the World Health Organization Regional Office for Europe. The variant is prevalent in Europe, where at least 13 nations have detected it, says Bhatnagar. So far, XEC constitutes about 8 per cent of all sequenced and reported samples from the continent this month, according to data from GISAID. By comparison, it made up about 4 per cent of samples in August. The most commonly sequenced variant in Europe is still KP.3.1.1 – which is also in the omicron family – at 48 per cent of all samples, says Bhatnagar. XEC is most widespread in France, comprising roughly 21 per cent of sequenced covid-19 samples. It is also gaining traction in Germany and the UK, where it represents 15 per cent and 8 per cent of sequenced samples, respectively, says [Francois Balloux](https://www.ucl.ac.uk/biosciences/people/francois-balloux) at University College London. The new variant has also been detected in the US, where it makes up roughly 1 per cent of cases, says Balloux. However, XEC hasn’t appeared on the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) [covid-19 variant tracker](https://covid.cdc.gov/covid-data-tracker/#variant-proportions), which includes variants once they account for 1 per cent of all cases in a week. ## What are the symptoms of XEC? So far, XEC causes the same symptoms as other covid-19 variants such as fever, muscle aches and pains, sore throat and cough. “We will have our ears open to learn whether there are possibly some distinctive features, clinically,” says Schaffner. “We doubt it, but we’re always open to that.” ## How dangerous is XEC? XEC doesn’t appear to be more dangerous or produce more severe disease than past covid-19 variants, says Schaffner. The WHO hasn’t designated it as a variant of concern either. That is because it shares many of the same characteristics as other omicron subvariants, like causing more mild illness than earlier strains, says Schaffner. ## Is XEC more transmissible? It is too early to say whether XEC is more transmissible than other variants, says [James Fielding](https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-fielding-037772159/?originalSubdomain=dk) at the WHO. Given it has gained a foothold among other circulating variants, however, it may have an advantage that makes it spread more easily. For instance, a preliminary analysis from Mike Honey, a data specialist based in Melbourne, Australia, suggests that XEC will become the dominant variant in [Europe](https://x.com/Mike_Honey_/status/1837114711072198686) and the [UK](https://x.com/mike_honey_) in October. He predicts the same will occur in the [US](https://x.com/Mike_Honey_/status/1837109804034314372) and [Canada](https://x.com/Mike_Honey_/status/1837110495985422519) later that month or in November. “How widely \[spread\] this particular strain will become, I think we just have to wait and see,” says Schaffner. ## Do covid-19 vaccines still work against XEC? The good news is that current covid-19 vaccines are expected to protect against XEC, says Schaffner. This is because updated versions target [omicron subvariants](https://www.newscientist.com/article/2404392-covid-19-vaccines-should-target-only-omicron-for-best-immune-response/). The [CDC](https://www.cdc.gov/covid/vaccines/stay-up-to-date.html#:~:text=Everyone%20ages%206%20months%20and%20older%20should%20get%20the%202024,who%20have%20had%20COVID-19.) recommends that everyone aged 6 months or older receive an updated covid-19 booster if they haven’t done so this year. In the [UK](https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/covid-19-vaccination-spring-booster-resources/a-guide-to-the-covid-19-spring-booster-2023), updated vaccines are available to people who are 75 and older, as well as those who live in senior care facilities or have a weakened immune system. Ultimately, Schaffner says there is no reason to panic about XEC. “The virus is just getting going, but it appears to be following the same pattern \[as past ones\]” he says. “My response is: same old, same old.” Topics:
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