New COVID subvariant XEC raises concerns as winter approaches

A new COVID subvariant, XEC, is emerging as a potential concern as winter approaches. First detected in Germany, it is a hybrid of two previous strains and is gaining traction in Western Europe. Doctors are urging vaccinations to combat this variant. Currently, XEC is not widely tracked in the U.S., where the dominant strain is KP.3.1.1. However, XEC accounts for 13% of cases in Germany and 7% in Britain. Experts warn that if it spreads, it could peak in the U.S. around November or December. COVID levels are declining in many states, but infections remain high in others. Vaccination is recommended for everyone aged six months and older, with updated COVID and flu vaccines available. The CDC also plans to offer free COVID tests again starting in late September.