UK braces for dominant XEC Covid variant amid tripledemic fears

The XEC Covid-19 variant, which is a recombinant of Omicron, is predicted to become the dominant strain in the UK this week, as the NHS urges over-65s to get their booster jab

A new variant of Covid-19 named XEC, which has developed from the Omicron strain, is anticipated to become predominant across Britain this week. Known for its heightened transmissibility, the variant has swiftly escalated, currently accounting for 21% of Covid infections in the UK.

This surge intersects with the launch of the Autumn Covid booster campaign, with an emphasis on encouraging those over 65 and other qualifying groups to get vaccinated for additional safeguarding. The NHS has sounded alarms over a possible 'tripledemic' as it prepares for the onslaught of flu and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) alongside Covid this winter, taking cues from Australia's heavy toll during their colder season, a factor that often foreshadows the scenario in the UK.

An Australian data analyst, Mike Honey, projects that by Thursday, XEC could account for over half of the new cases in the UK, based on his interpretation of patterns reported by the i. He communicated via Twitter: "For the UK, XEC is showing a strong growth advantage of 4.9% per day (34% per week) over the DeFLuQE variants, which predicts a crossover in mid-October."

READ MORE: GP says new XEC Covid variant is 'wiping people out' and 'expected to become most dominant'

Figures from the global Gisaid Covid database point to a sharp climb in XEC cases since late August, with initial estimates indicating it composed merely around 5% of the nation's Covid infections at that time. The database represents an extensive network of laboratories worldwide, sharing virus information derived from genetically sequenced samples, reports the Mirror.

The XEC variant, a new player in the Covid-19 pandemic, is understood to be a fusion of two Omicron offshoots, KS.1.1 and KP.3.3, earning it the label of a "recombinant variant". This occurs when a single host is simultaneously infected by different variants, allowing them to exchange genetic material, leading to the emergence of a new strain with traits from both "parent" lineages.

KS. 1.1 falls under the umbrella of "FLiRT" variants, while KP.3.3 belongs to the "FLuQE" family. Both have been instrumental in fuelling recent spikes in Covid cases worldwide.

Symptoms mirror those of earlier strains, including fever, body aches, fatigue, and respiratory issues like coughing or a sore throat. Eric Topol, who heads the Scripps Research Translational Institute in California, shared his insights with the LA Times, noting that XEC is "just getting started".

He elaborated: "And that's going to take many weeks, a couple of months, before it really takes hold and starts to cause a wave. XEC is definitely taking charge. That does appear to be the next variant. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) says it is normal for viruses to mutate and change. UKHSA data show Covid infections rose by nearly a tenth up to 5.05 people per 100,000 of the population on 28 September, compared to 4.66 a week earlier.

Meanwhile, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has commented on the nature of viruses to evolve over time. According to the latest figures from the UKHSA, there has been an uptick in Covid cases, with the rate climbing to 5.05 infections per 100,000 people on 28 September, up from 4.66 the previous week.

Dr Gayatri Amirthalingam, Deputy Director at UKHSA, commented: "It is normal and expected for viruses to genetically change over time. UKHSA continues to monitor all available information relating to emerging Covid variants in the UK and internationally and to publish our data regularly. Vaccination provides the best protection against serious illness from Covid-19, and we urge those who are contacted by the NHS to come forward to receive their autumn vaccine."

The NHS's vaccination campaign against flu and Covid kicked off in earnest in October, targeting groups including everyone aged 65 and over, residents in care homes for older adults, individuals with certain clinical conditions, as well as front-line health and social care workers. To learn how to secure your Covid booster through the NHS if you're eligible, click HERE.

Meanwhile, High Street pharmacies and private clinics are also offering Covid vaccinations, with prices ranging from £45 to £99. Additionally, Covid tests are available for purchase at approximately £2 each.