New COVID subvariant XEC emerges as U.S. sees summer case decline

A new COVID subvariant called XEC has emerged in the U.S., following a significant summer surge in cases. XEC, which is related to the Omicron variant, has been detected in at least 15 countries and 12 U.S. states. Currently, XEC's prevalence in the U.S. is low, with another Omicron sublineage, KP.3.1.1, accounting for 53% of infections. Experts suggest XEC could become more common in the coming weeks, but data on its specific symptoms is still limited. New COVID vaccines targeting recent variants are now available. While not specifically designed for XEC, they aim to provide protection against circulating strains. Vaccination is recommended for everyone aged 6 months and older.