XEC

SARS-CoV-2 XEC Recombinant Variant

Severity: MediumVariant Under MonitoringIncreasing

XEC is a hybrid recombinant variant resulting from recombination between two JN.1-related variants, showing increased transmission.

Quick Facts

First Detected:August 2024

Countries:68+

Last Updated:2025-06-22

Transmissibility

Increasing transmission due to recombination advantages

Vaccine Evasion

Enhanced immune evasion from hybrid characteristics

Global Prevalence

Increasing globally (14-22% of viruses by late 2024)

Symptoms & Signs

Common Symptoms

Cough

Fatigue

Congestion

Body aches

Headache

Distinctive Features

Similar symptom profile to JN.1 variants

Mild to moderate severity

Prevention & Treatment

Prevention Strategies

2024-2025 updated vaccines expected to be effective

Mask wearing in high-risk settings

Improved ventilation

Regular testing if symptomatic

Treatment Options

Current antivirals and treatments remain effective against XEC

Key Mutations

T22N

F59S

F456L

Q493E

V1104L

Global Surveillance

Countries Reporting68+

Global CasesRepresents 14-22% of circulating viruses

Current TrendIncreasing

Key Research Findings

Result of recombination between two JN.1 variants

Increasing circulation while KP.3.1.1 declines

Represents 14-22% of viruses nationally in some regions

Expected to be covered by updated 2024-2025 vaccines

High-Risk Groups

Immunocompromised persons

Adults over 60 years

Multiple chronic conditions

Previous COVID infections

Official Sources & References

World Health Organization

Official WHO variant assessment and guidelines

Visit WHO Resource

CDC United States

Centers for Disease Control variant information

Visit CDC Resource

ECDC Europe

European Centre for Disease Prevention

Visit ECDC Resource

Related Variants

Omicron BA.5

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Omicron XBB

XBB is a recombinant variant combining genetic material from two BA.2 sublineages, showing enhanced ...

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JN.1

JN.1 emerged as a descendant of BA.2.86 with additional mutations conferring transmission advantages...

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Medical Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult with qualified healthcare providers for diagnosis, treatment, and medical guidance. Information last updated: 2025-06-22.