Tanya Dutt

Over Half Of US States Battle New COVID-19 Variant XEC: Key Facts You Need To Know

COVID XEC Variant (Credit: Canva)

As <span>COVID-19</span> continues to evolve, a new variant has emerged, catching the attention of scientists and health officials alike. This variant, known as XEC, has been detected in various parts of the world, including half of the United States. While it has yet to cause widespread concern, it raises important questions about the future of the pandemic and what we can expect in the coming months.

<h2>What is the <span rel="noindex">XEC Variant</span>?</h2>

XEC is a recombinant variant of SARS-CoV-2, which means it originated from the combination of two existing variants. Specifically, it is a sublineage of the omicron variant, formed by the recombination of KS.1.1 and KP.3.3, both of which are descendants of the JN.1 strain. Recombinant variants occur when an individual is infected by two different strains simultaneously, allowing their genetic material to mix and create a new variant.

This new variant was first detected in Berlin in June 2024, and since then, it has spread rapidly across Europe, North America, and Asia. In the United States, XEC has been reported in at least 25 states, with New Jersey, California, and Virginia reporting the highest number of cases. While its presence is growing, XEC has yet to outcompete other dominant strains such as KP.3.1.1, which currently accounts for over half of the COVID-19 cases in the U.S.

The rise of XEC has garnered attention from variant trackers, particularly in Europe, where the variant has been spreading at a fast rate. According to experts, XEC is currently the fastest-growing COVID-19 variant in countries like Germany and Denmark. This rapid rise has led some to speculate that XEC may become the dominant strain in the U.S. and other regions by the fall and winter of 2024.

However, the overall <span>public health concern</span> remains relatively low at this stage. Health officials, including those at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), have not raised alarms over XEC, unlike previous variants that exhibited more significant genetic mutations. As a recombinant of two closely related strains, XEC appears to behave similarly to other <span>omicron subvariants</span> in terms of transmissibility and clinical outcomes.

<h2>COVID XEC Variant Transmissibility and Spread</h2>

As with many other variants of SARS-CoV-2, XEC spreads primarily through respiratory droplets when an infected individual talks, coughs, or sneezes. Like its predecessors, it is considered highly contagious, and the rapid rise of cases in multiple countries suggests it can spread quickly under favorable conditions.

Nevertheless, it is still too early to predict whether XEC will become the dominant strain globally. Experts like Dr. William Schaffner of Vanderbilt University Medical Center and Dr. Andrew Pekosz of Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health note that XEC shares many characteristics with previous omicron variants, including its ability to spread efficiently. Still, there are no immediate "alarm bells" to suggest that this variant will cause more severe illness or escape immunity to a significant degree.

<h2>Will XEC Cause a Fall Surge in US?</h2>

In the U.S., the 2024 summer wave of COVID-19 infections has been more prolonged than expected, but it is now beginning to wane. However, as respiratory virus season approaches, health experts are keeping a close eye on the potential for a winter surge in cases, which could be driven by variants like XEC.

Historically, COVID-19 cases have peaked in the winter months as people spend more time indoors, increasing the likelihood of transmission. While it is unclear how severe this year's winter wave will be, the CDC anticipates a rise in cases peaking in mid-January 2025.

Dr. Eric Topol, a physician-scientist and director of the Scripps Research Translational Institute, has suggested that XEC could be the next major variant to "get legs" and drive a wave of infections in the coming months. Still, much remains uncertain, including whether XEC will outcompete other variants, how large the winter surge might be, and whether this variant will lead to more severe illness.

<h2><span rel="noindex">Symptoms OF XEC Variant</span></h2>

As of now, there is no evidence to suggest that XEC causes different or more severe symptoms compared to other circulating COVID-19 variants. Common symptoms of COVID-19, including fever, cough, fatigue, and loss of taste or smell, are likely to remain consistent among those infected with XEC.

Regarding vaccine effectiveness, the CDC has stated that this fall's updated COVID-19 vaccines are expected to provide protection against circulating variants, including XEC. These vaccines have been updated to target the KP.2 strain, which is closely related to XEC. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has also expressed confidence in the effectiveness of the updated vaccines.

While it remains unclear how XEC will affect vaccine performance, experts are optimistic that the vaccines, along with treatments, will continue to be effective against all current COVID-19 strains, including XEC. As always, the CDC recommends that Americans receive their COVID-19 vaccines to ensure optimal protection during the upcoming respiratory virus season.

<h2>Is XEC More Contagious Than Other Variants?</h2>

Though there is still limited data on the XEC variant, early observations suggest that it may have the potential to be more transmissible than some of the currently circulating strains. The variant has already shown notable growth in countries like Germany, where it is spreading faster than other strains. However, whether it will surpass other dominant variants, such as KP.3.1.1 (also known as "DeFLuQE"), remains unclear.

XEC possesses a mutation in its spike protein, the part of the virus responsible for binding to human cells, which may explain its rapid transmission. As with other Omicron subvariants, XEC is primarily spread through respiratory droplets when an infected person talks, coughs, or sneezes. 

While experts are monitoring its spread closely, they have not yet sounded alarm bells over its potential to outcompete other variants.

XEC is a new recombinant variant of COVID-19 that has emerged in several countries, including the U.S. While it has not yet triggered widespread concern, its rapid rise warrants close observation as we head into the winter months. For now, the best course of action is to follow public health guidelines, stay informed about new developments, and ensure that vaccinations are up to date.

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COVID-19

covid variant xec

xec variant

combination of KS.1.1 and KP.3.3

public health concern

omicron subvariants

symptoms of xec variant

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As COVID-19 continues to evolve, a new variant has emerged, catching the attention of scientists and health officials alike. This variant, known as XEC, has been detected in various parts of the world, including half of the United States. While it has yet to cause widespread concern, it raises important questions about the future of the pandemic and what we can expect in the coming months.What is the XEC Variant?XEC is a recombinant variant of SARS-CoV-2, which means it originated from the combination of two existing variants. Specifically, it is a sublineage of the omicron variant, formed by the recombination of KS.1.1 and KP.3.3, both of which are descendants of the JN.1 strain. Recombinant variants occur when an individual is infected by two different strains simultaneously, allowing their genetic material to mix and create a new variant.This new variant was first detected in Berlin in June 2024, and since then, it has spread rapidly across Europe, North America, and Asia. In the United States, XEC has been reported in at least 25 states, with New Jersey, California, and Virginia reporting the highest number of cases. While its presence is growing, XEC has yet to outcompete other dominant strains such as KP.3.1.1, which currently accounts for over half of the COVID-19 cases in the U.S.The rise of XEC has garnered attention from variant trackers, particularly in Europe, where the variant has been spreading at a fast rate. According to experts, XEC is currently the fastest-growing COVID-19 variant in countries like Germany and Denmark. This rapid rise has led some to speculate that XEC may become the dominant strain in the U.S. and other regions by the fall and winter of 2024.However, the overall public health concern remains relatively low at this stage. Health officials, including those at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), have not raised alarms over XEC, unlike previous variants that exhibited more significant genetic mutations. As a recombinant of two closely related strains, XEC appears to behave similarly to other omicron subvariants in terms of transmissibility and clinical outcomes.COVID XEC Variant Transmissibility and SpreadAs with many other variants of SARS-CoV-2, XEC spreads primarily through respiratory droplets when an infected individual talks, coughs, or sneezes. Like its predecessors, it is considered highly contagious, and the rapid rise of cases in multiple countries suggests it can spread quickly under favorable conditions.Nevertheless, it is still too early to predict whether XEC will become the dominant strain globally. Experts like Dr. William Schaffner of Vanderbilt University Medical Center and Dr. Andrew Pekosz of Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health note that XEC shares many characteristics with previous omicron variants, including its ability to spread efficiently. Still, there are no immediate "alarm bells" to suggest that this variant will cause more severe illness or escape immunity to a significant degree.Will XEC Cause a Fall Surge in US?In the U.S., the 2024 summer wave of COVID-19 infections has been more prolonged than expected, but it is now beginning to wane. However, as respiratory virus season approaches, health experts are keeping a close eye on the potential for a winter surge in cases, which could be driven by variants like XEC.Historically, COVID-19 cases have peaked in the winter months as people spend more time indoors, increasing the likelihood of transmission. While it is unclear how severe this year's winter wave will be, the CDC anticipates a rise in cases peaking in mid-January 2025.Dr. Eric Topol, a physician-scientist and director of the Scripps Research Translational Institute, has suggested that XEC could be the next major variant to "get legs" and drive a wave of infections in the coming months. Still, much remains uncertain, including whether XEC will outcompete other variants, how large the winter surge might be, and whether this variant will lead to more severe illness.Symptoms OF XEC VariantAs of now, there is no evidence to suggest that XEC causes different or more severe symptoms compared to other circulating COVID-19 variants. Common symptoms of COVID-19, including fever, cough, fatigue, and loss of taste or smell, are likely to remain consistent among those infected with XEC.Regarding vaccine effectiveness, the CDC has stated that this fall's updated COVID-19 vaccines are expected to provide protection against circulating variants, including XEC. These vaccines have been updated to target the KP.2 strain, which is closely related to XEC. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has also expressed confidence in the effectiveness of the updated vaccines.While it remains unclear how XEC will affect vaccine performance, experts are optimistic that the vaccines, along with treatments, will continue to be effective against all current COVID-19 strains, including XEC. As always, the CDC recommends that Americans receive their COVID-19 vaccines to ensure optimal protection during the upcoming respiratory virus season.Is XEC More Contagious Than Other Variants?Though there is still limited data on the XEC variant, early observations suggest that it may have the potential to be more transmissible than some of the currently circulating strains. The variant has already shown notable growth in countries like Germany, where it is spreading faster than other strains. However, whether it will surpass other dominant variants, such as KP.3.1.1 (also known as "DeFLuQE"), remains unclear.XEC possesses a mutation in its spike protein, the part of the virus responsible for binding to human cells, which may explain its rapid transmission. As with other Omicron subvariants, XEC is primarily spread through respiratory droplets when an infected person talks, coughs, or sneezes. While experts are monitoring its spread closely, they have not yet sounded alarm bells over its potential to outcompete other variants.XEC is a new recombinant variant of COVID-19 that has emerged in several countries, including the U.S. While it has not yet triggered widespread concern, its rapid rise warrants close observation as we head into the winter months. For now, the best course of action is to follow public health guidelines, stay informed about new developments, and ensure that vaccinations are up to date.

over half of us states battle new covid-19 variant xec: key facts you need to know

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The Itchy Truth About Pads and Tampons: What Your Period Products Are Not Telling You

Credits: Canva

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For something that’s supposed to be a monthly saviour, your sanitary pad could actually be a trouble in disguise. If you’ve ever spent your period feeling itchy, sore, or just...off, you’re not imagining it. According to gynaecologist Dr Vaidehi Marathe, many conventional pads and tampons contain elements that don’t quite agree with your body.

Itchiness is a common complaint during menstruation, but most people blame sweat, heat, or hormones. The real problem, says Dr Marathe, might be your pad itself. Many commercial pads are loaded with synthetic materials, added fragrances, and chemical adhesives that can irritate the delicate skin in your intimate area. That persistent itch could be your body’s way of saying, please get this thing off me.

It doesn’t end with itching. If you’ve ever developed a rash down there during your period, Dr Marathe says your pad’s texture or material could be behind it. "Poor-quality materials or excessive friction can cause chafing, redness, and irritation," she says in an Instagram video. 

Even tampons, which many prefer for comfort and convenience, aren’t totally innocent. High-absorbency varieties are known to dry out the vaginal lining, leading to discomfort and even micro-tears. Dr Marathe warns that such dryness disturbs the natural balance of the vaginal mucosa, and that’s when things can start to get really unpleasant.

While menstruation has a natural odour, a strange or strong scent often comes from bacterial buildup, not your body. Pads, especially the non-breathable kind, can trap moisture and create a breeding ground for bacteria. Dr Marathe points out that the odour is often caused by bacteria thriving in that warm, moist environment. 

You don’t have to suffer for the sake of convenience. Look beyond the supermarket aisle. <span>Cloth pads</span>, menstrual cups, and period underwear are all gentler options that are free of harmful chemicals and better for your skin and the environment. They allow the area to breathe and are less likely to cause irritation or dryness.

Menstrual cups in particular have gained popularity for being economical, eco-friendly, and surprisingly comfortable once you get the hang of them.

Periods are already uncomfortable enough without adding allergic reactions, rashes, or infections to the mix. If you’re constantly battling irritation or feeling ‘off’ during your cycle, it’s worth examining what’s coming into contact with your skin for hours at a stretch. 

period rash

tampon dryness

menstrual cup

cloth pads

period panties

pad irritation

eco friendly period products

intimate itching

period odour

For something that’s supposed to be a monthly saviour, your sanitary pad could actually be a trouble in disguise. If you’ve ever spent your period feeling itchy, sore, or just...off, you’re not imagining it. According to gynaecologist Dr Vaidehi Marathe, many conventional pads and tampons contain elements that don’t quite agree with your body.Itchiness is a common complaint during menstruation, but most people blame sweat, heat, or hormones. The real problem, says Dr Marathe, might be your pad itself. Many commercial pads are loaded with synthetic materials, added fragrances, and chemical adhesives that can irritate the delicate skin in your intimate area. That persistent itch could be your body’s way of saying, please get this thing off me.Rashes, roughness, and frictionIt doesn’t end with itching. If you’ve ever developed a rash down there during your period, Dr Marathe says your pad’s texture or material could be behind it. "Poor-quality materials or excessive friction can cause chafing, redness, and irritation," she says in an Instagram video. Even tampons, which many prefer for comfort and convenience, aren’t totally innocent. High-absorbency varieties are known to dry out the vaginal lining, leading to discomfort and even micro-tears. Dr Marathe warns that such dryness disturbs the natural balance of the vaginal mucosa, and that’s when things can start to get really unpleasant.That smell isn’t just your periodWhile menstruation has a natural odour, a strange or strong scent often comes from bacterial buildup, not your body. Pads, especially the non-breathable kind, can trap moisture and create a breeding ground for bacteria. Dr Marathe points out that the odour is often caused by bacteria thriving in that warm, moist environment. Healthier swapsYou don’t have to suffer for the sake of convenience. Look beyond the supermarket aisle. Cloth pads, menstrual cups, and period underwear are all gentler options that are free of harmful chemicals and better for your skin and the environment. They allow the area to breathe and are less likely to cause irritation or dryness.Menstrual cups in particular have gained popularity for being economical, eco-friendly, and surprisingly comfortable once you get the hang of them.Your period deserves betterPeriods are already uncomfortable enough without adding allergic reactions, rashes, or infections to the mix. If you’re constantly battling irritation or feeling ‘off’ during your cycle, it’s worth examining what’s coming into contact with your skin for hours at a stretch. 

the itchy truth about pads and tampons: what your period products are not telling you

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Many people start their day with a glass of <span>lemon water</span>, hoping for a range of health benefits—from better skin to improved <span>digestion</span>. But what actually happens when you stick to this habit every day for a month? According to gastroenterologist <span>Dr Saurabh Sethi</span>, lemon water can offer some real advantages, as long as you are aware of a few important points.

Lemons are packed with more than 30 beneficial plant compounds, says Dr Sethi. These include <span>antioxidants</span> and anti-inflammatory agents that support your body's daily housekeeping on a cellular level.

But freshly squeezed is important. “Pasteurised lemon juice often loses a significant portion of its nutritional value,” Dr Sethi explains. 

While you are sipping away, thinking you are just hydrating enough, something pretty important is happening in the background. The natural acidity of lemons can help your body absorb minerals more effectively, particularly iron, according to Dr Sethi. That means your morning lemon ritual might be giving your iron supplements or spinach salads a bit of extra firepower.

And lemon water does not magically "alkalise" your body. But what it does do is help your digestive system set the stage for better nutrient uptake.

<strong>Skin Goals and <span rel="noindex">Collagen</span> Dreams</strong>

If you are secretly hoping for that elusive “glow-up” by day 30, you might be in luck. Lemons are a great source of <span>vitamin C</span>, a key player in the production of collagen, the protein responsible for keeping your skin firm, your joints cushioned, and your connective tissues in top shape.

Dr Sethi says that daily lemon water may support healthier skin from the inside out. Think of it as your internal skincare serum. 

As Dr Sethi points out, lemon water might not be ideal for everyone, especially those with <span>acid reflux</span> or sensitive stomachs. The very same acidity that helps with mineral absorption can irritate the oesophagus lining or worsen heartburn in susceptible folks. If you have ever felt that familiar burn after a glass of lemony water, your body is throwing a sign. 

lemon water

vitamin c

collagen

skin health

digestion

acid reflux

hydration

antioxidants

iron absorption

dr saurabh sethi

Many people start their day with a glass of lemon water, hoping for a range of health benefits—from better skin to improved digestion. But what actually happens when you stick to this habit every day for a month? According to gastroenterologist Dr Saurabh Sethi, lemon water can offer some real advantages, as long as you are aware of a few important points.Lemons Pack a Big PunchLemons are packed with more than 30 beneficial plant compounds, says Dr Sethi. These include antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents that support your body's daily housekeeping on a cellular level.But freshly squeezed is important. “Pasteurised lemon juice often loses a significant portion of its nutritional value,” Dr Sethi explains. Absorption Gets a BoostWhile you are sipping away, thinking you are just hydrating enough, something pretty important is happening in the background. The natural acidity of lemons can help your body absorb minerals more effectively, particularly iron, according to Dr Sethi. That means your morning lemon ritual might be giving your iron supplements or spinach salads a bit of extra firepower.And lemon water does not magically "alkalise" your body. But what it does do is help your digestive system set the stage for better nutrient uptake.Skin Goals and Collagen DreamsIf you are secretly hoping for that elusive “glow-up” by day 30, you might be in luck. Lemons are a great source of vitamin C, a key player in the production of collagen, the protein responsible for keeping your skin firm, your joints cushioned, and your connective tissues in top shape.Dr Sethi says that daily lemon water may support healthier skin from the inside out. Think of it as your internal skincare serum. The Bitter TruthAs Dr Sethi points out, lemon water might not be ideal for everyone, especially those with acid reflux or sensitive stomachs. The very same acidity that helps with mineral absorption can irritate the oesophagus lining or worsen heartburn in susceptible folks. If you have ever felt that familiar burn after a glass of lemony water, your body is throwing a sign. 

Aarushi Bhadury

Dementia Caregivers Often End Up Being Nieces And Nephews Of The Family

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Caring for a family member who has <span>dementia</span> is a herculean task. Not only does one have to be patient but also vigilant, keep track of things as well as find make sure to communicate with the person they are taking care of. Not many people feel up to the task and often experience caregiver’s burnout sooner or later. However, when a family member does get diagnosed with dementia, who usually steps up to the task? 

A recent small study reveals that two-thirds of nieces and nephews who care for an older relative with dementia never anticipated taking on that responsibility. These caregivers often found themselves in the role either gradually or due to family circumstances, according to findings published in The <span>Gerontologist</span>. 

One researcher noted that while this unplanned care shows immense love, it also hides a lot of stress. These caregivers juggle their own households, children, and jobs alongside their primary caregiving duties. 

Despite the unexpected nature of the role, these nieces and nephews often had strong, lifelong connections with their aunts and uncles. They were shaped by family ties to potentially become caregivers. 

Many participants expressed feeling like they were "paying back the love" their aunt or uncle showed them growing up. This suggests that when care comes from a place of genuine gratitude rather than just obligation, caregivers are more likely to persevere, even when resources are scarce and stress is high. 

For this study, researchers talked in depth with 20 nieces and 5 nephews who were caring for an aunt or uncle. These caregivers were between 38 and 67 years old and lived in several states. All of them either lived with their relative or saw them at least three times a week. 

This research is especially important now because as the population gets older, many more extended family members might find themselves in unexpected caregiving roles. 

<h2>Deep Family Bonds and <span rel="noindex">Unexpected Demands</span> </h2>

The study revealed that most of these caregivers grew up in the same town as their aunts and uncles. They often described their relatives as "fun" or their "favorite," someone they could talk to or get advice from. In a couple of families, the aunt was even like a second mother. These younger relatives kept strong connections with their aunts and uncles over the years. 

Despite these close bonds, most of the caregivers (19 out of 25) never expected to become primary caregivers. For example, one nephew took on the role because his wife and her sisters worked outside the home, and he had a flexible remote job. Another niece stepped in because her own mother, who was initially caring for the aunt, became too sick to continue. She even described tough situations where her aunt would throw food. 

The study also showed that a person's current life situation played a bigger part in them becoming a caregiver than factors like being single or not having children. Surprisingly, nearly half of the relatives with dementia had their own children still alive, and most had living brothers or sisters, yet the nieces and nephews still became the main caregivers. 

<h2>Recognizing Non-Traditional Caregivers </h2>

These findings highlight that support systems need to recognize that non-traditional caregivers, like nieces and nephews, are often stepping in to fill crucial roles. Understanding what these extended family caregivers go through gives a more complete picture of how families care for their loved ones. 

Learning about their experiences will help us figure out what support they're missing and create programs to help them stay healthy and well. This benefits everyone involved: the person with dementia, the caregiver, and society as a whole. 

Dementia

unexpected demands

gerontologist

Dementia Caregivers

Family Dementia Caregivers

caring for a sick family member

Caring for a family member who has dementia is a herculean task. Not only does one have to be patient but also vigilant, keep track of things as well as find make sure to communicate with the person they are taking care of. Not many people feel up to the task and often experience caregiver’s burnout sooner or later. However, when a family member does get diagnosed with dementia, who usually steps up to the task? A recent small study reveals that two-thirds of nieces and nephews who care for an older relative with dementia never anticipated taking on that responsibility. These caregivers often found themselves in the role either gradually or due to family circumstances, according to findings published in The Gerontologist. One researcher noted that while this unplanned care shows immense love, it also hides a lot of stress. These caregivers juggle their own households, children, and jobs alongside their primary caregiving duties. Driven by Love, Not Just Duty Despite the unexpected nature of the role, these nieces and nephews often had strong, lifelong connections with their aunts and uncles. They were shaped by family ties to potentially become caregivers. Many participants expressed feeling like they were "paying back the love" their aunt or uncle showed them growing up. This suggests that when care comes from a place of genuine gratitude rather than just obligation, caregivers are more likely to persevere, even when resources are scarce and stress is high. Who Are These Caregivers? For this study, researchers talked in depth with 20 nieces and 5 nephews who were caring for an aunt or uncle. These caregivers were between 38 and 67 years old and lived in several states. All of them either lived with their relative or saw them at least three times a week. This research is especially important now because as the population gets older, many more extended family members might find themselves in unexpected caregiving roles. Deep Family Bonds and Unexpected Demands The study revealed that most of these caregivers grew up in the same town as their aunts and uncles. They often described their relatives as "fun" or their "favorite," someone they could talk to or get advice from. In a couple of families, the aunt was even like a second mother. These younger relatives kept strong connections with their aunts and uncles over the years. Despite these close bonds, most of the caregivers (19 out of 25) never expected to become primary caregivers. For example, one nephew took on the role because his wife and her sisters worked outside the home, and he had a flexible remote job. Another niece stepped in because her own mother, who was initially caring for the aunt, became too sick to continue. She even described tough situations where her aunt would throw food. The study also showed that a person's current life situation played a bigger part in them becoming a caregiver than factors like being single or not having children. Surprisingly, nearly half of the relatives with dementia had their own children still alive, and most had living brothers or sisters, yet the nieces and nephews still became the main caregivers. Recognizing Non-Traditional Caregivers These findings highlight that support systems need to recognize that non-traditional caregivers, like nieces and nephews, are often stepping in to fill crucial roles. Understanding what these extended family caregivers go through gives a more complete picture of how families care for their loved ones. Learning about their experiences will help us figure out what support they're missing and create programs to help them stay healthy and well. This benefits everyone involved: the person with dementia, the caregiver, and society as a whole.  

dementia caregivers often end up being nieces and nephews of the family

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Over Half Of US States Battle New COVID-19 Variant XEC: Key Facts You Need To Know

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