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Scientists say people are starting to become infected with a new variant of the coronavirus that could quickly spread and become the dominant type.
Cases of the XEC variant were identified in Germany in June and have since appeared in the UK, US, Denmark and several other countries, users of X (formerly Twitter) said.
Experts say there are some new variants that could lead to more infections this fall, but vaccines should still help prevent severe illness.
The NHS is offering free booster vaccinations to people who are at high risk of becoming seriously ill from coronavirus.
The vaccine has been updated to be more compatible with recent variants, but does not cover XEC, which emerged from the earlier Omicron variant.
Professor François Ballou, director of the Institute of Genetics at University College London, told BBC News that while XEC has “a small transmission advantage” compared to other recent coronavirus variants, vaccines are unlikely to be effective. He said it should still provide sufficient protection.
However, he says XEC could become the dominant subvariant during the winter months.
“In charge”
Eric Topol, director of the Scripps Research Institute's Translational Institute in California, said XEC is “in its infancy.”
“And it's going to take weeks and months before it really takes hold and starts making waves,” he told the LA Times.
“XEC is definitely in the lead.
“It looks like the next variant.
“But it will still take several months to reach a high level.”
What are the symptoms of XEC Covid?
Symptoms are thought to be the same cold or flu-like symptoms as before.
High temperature, pain, cough, sore throat
Most people feel better within a few weeks after contracting COVID-19, but recovery may take longer.
COVID-19 data analyst Mike Honey said of X that XEC is experiencing “strong growth” in Denmark and Germany.
There are far fewer routine tests than in the past, making it difficult to know how widespread the coronavirus is.
Where can I get a coronavirus test or vaccine?
The UK Health and Safety Agency (UKHSA) says it is normal for viruses to mutate and change.
The following people are eligible to receive the free booster vaccination:
Adults aged 65 and over and people aged 6 months and over in the very elderly clinical risk group living in care homes for the elderly Some frontline NHS, care home and social care workers
Main vaccinations for influenza and COVID-19 are scheduled to begin in October, but some people may receive their shots sooner.
Dr Gayatri Amirthalingam, UKHSA Deputy Director, said: “It is normal and expected that viruses change genetically over time. UKHSA continues to update all available information relating to new Covid variants emerging in the UK and overseas. We monitor and publish data on a regular basis.
“Vaccination is the best protection against serious illness caused by coronavirus and we encourage anyone who has been contacted by the NHS to come forward to receive a vaccination in the autumn. ”
A number of high street pharmacies and private clinics are selling and administering coronavirus vaccines directly to the public.
Costs range from around £45 to £99.
You must be at least 12 years old and have not received a COVID-19 vaccination within the past three months.
Routine coronavirus testing is not recommended, but people can buy at-home tests from high street and online pharmacies for around £2.
