A new variant of the coronavirus, designated XEC, is gaining ground in Germany, displacing previous strains like KP.3.1.1. Currently, over seven million Germans are suffering from respiratory illnesses, with a notable rise in COVID-19 cases linked to XEC. Symptoms are becoming more pronounced, resembling flu-like conditions, though the overall severity appears low. Experts advise booster vaccinations, particularly for vulnerable populations, as cases rise amid changing virus dynamics.
The ongoing evolution of the coronavirus continues to produce new variants, with some proving more infectious than those that came before. A recent variant, known as XEC, a descendant of Omicron, is rapidly becoming the dominant strain, replacing other variants.
Currently, over seven million people in Germany are battling illness, with the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) reporting an unusually high level of respiratory diseases for this time of year.
According to the RKI’s latest report covering October 7-13, 2024, there are approximately 7.4 million cases of acute respiratory illnesses (ARE). Cold viruses and Sars-CoV-2 are primarily responsible for the surge in cases. Notably, a significant uptick in coronavirus loads in wastewater has been observed since mid-September.
XEC Variant Gaining Ground
The latest updates from the Ministry of Health indicate a rising number of COVID-19 infections in Germany, attributed to the spread of variants like KP.3.1.1, MC.13, and XEC. The XEC variant, in particular, shows a notable transmission advantage over previous sublineages. Epidemiologist Timo Ulrichs suggests that XEC will likely become the predominant variant during the winter months.
The XEC variant is overtaking others; reports from the RKI indicate that in the 39th calendar week of 2024, the KP.3.1.1 sublineage accounted for 41% of cases, while the recombinant XEC sublineage held steady at 27%.
Surge in COVID-19 Cases in Germany
Data analyst Mike Honey recently highlighted a notable 67% increase in COVID-19 cases in Germany, although he cautioned that recent samples may not be entirely representative due to their limited scope. His analysis, based on data from Gisaid, an international genomic data-sharing platform, suggests that XEC has surpassed other coronavirus variants both globally and in Europe.
New Symptom: Appetite Loss Linked to COVID
In the UK, the National Health Service (NHS) is closely monitoring the resurgence of COVID due to the XEC variant, especially as hospital admissions continue to rise. The NHS strongly emphasizes isolating when symptoms appear.
While the XEC variant displays symptoms similar to those of other strains, it also presents some less expected signs, such as a loss of appetite. Affected individuals might only recognize this issue when they attempt to eat.
Loss of appetite can result from various factors related to coronavirus. For instance, taste and smell dysfunction may reduce the desire to eat. In such cases, it is advisable to stick to familiar foods and avoid new ingredients.
Additionally, COVID can impact the gastrointestinal tract. Research from the Medical University of Vienna in 2022 showed that about 60% of patients reported gastrointestinal issues. While the virus primarily targets the lungs, it can also affect other organs, including the intestines, due to its unique structure.
Increased Severity of Symptoms
Dr. Helen Wall, a general practitioner in the UK, has noted a change in the presentation of COVID-19, particularly with the XEC variant. In an interview with the ‘Manchester Evening News,’ she remarked that individuals infected with this variant often feel ‘knocked out.’ She stated that symptoms now appear more flu-like, encompassing high fevers, severe coughs, body aches, and headaches.
Common Symptoms of XEC Variant
The symptoms associated with the XEC variant align closely with those of earlier coronavirus strains. The NHS has reiterated these symptoms for public awareness.
Assessing the Danger of XEC and Other Variants
According to lung specialist Dr. Esser, there is no evidence suggesting that the XEC variant is more dangerous than previous strains. In many cases, the disease remains mild. Dr. Ulrichs also notes that current variants, including KP.3.1.1 and XEC, typically do not lead to more severe cases than earlier variants.
While certain severe cases of the JN.1 variant have been reported, with more intense flu-like symptoms, there has been no significant rise in hospitalizations or ICU admissions. The RKI currently assesses the health risk posed by XEC as low, a view echoed by experts.
While the XEC variant may lead to more pronounced symptoms compared to its predecessors, this is not considered alarming, given the generally strong immunity built up against coronaviruses. However, it remains essential to monitor for potential increases in Long Covid cases related to XEC.