A new COVID-19 variant called XEC, first detected in Germany in June, is now spreading rapidly across 15 countries in Europe, North America, and Asia, with around 550 cases reported.
Experts predict XEC could soon become the dominant strain, with common symptoms including high temperature, continuous cough, loss of smell or taste, and fatigue.
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises precautions such as vaccination, wearing masks, and maintaining good hygiene to stay protected.
