2024-09-20 23:40:24
The new strain of coronavirus spreading rapidly across Europe has proven to be more contagious than previous variants. According to experts, the new sub-variant XEC, a descendant of Omicron, could soon become the dominant strain on the European continent.
This was reported by the Daily Express.
What is known about the new strain of COVID-19
The XEC strain is a hybrid of two Omicron subvariants – KS.1.1 (FLiRT) and KP.3.3. A unique feature of this strain is mutations in the structures of the virus, which make it more capable of penetrating human cells and spreading quickly.
Experts estimate that the XEC strain is only just beginning to spread, but it is expected to become the leading circulating variant in the coming weeks and months. The variant was first identified in Germany on June 15, and there is now concern that the number of cases will increase sharply with the arrival of cold weather.
Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore
The main symptoms of the new XEC strain are similar to those of colds and flu:
- Dyspnea
- High temperature
- Constant cough
- Loss of smell or taste
- Feeling very tired or exhausted
Although most people recover within a few weeks, some people may have a longer illness and complications.
COVID-19 Prevention Tips
To reduce the risk of infection and avoid getting sick, it is important to follow a few simple but effective measures:
- Wear masks in public placesespecially in closed and crowded spaces.
- Wash your hands regularly with soap or use an antiseptic with at least 60% alcohol content.
- Avoid close contact with sick people and try to maintain social distancing.
- Maintain your immunity – eat more vegetables and fruits, take vitamins, lead an active lifestyle.
- Ventilate the premisesespecially during the cold season, to reduce the concentration of virus particles in the air.
- Follow your doctor’s recommendations and get vaccinated against COVID-19 if necessary to minimize the risk of complications.
Earlier, Cursor wrote that Scientists say humanity needs to prepare for a new pandemicThe emergence and spread of new pathogens is inevitable.