Symptoms of Covid XEC variant could show up in particular order, experts say
The order in which Covid-19 symptoms arise have been revealed by a new study, as the new XEC variant spreads
Households are bracing themselves for a triple threat this winter as the new XEC variant of Covid-19 cases spike, flu jabs hit a low uptake, and RSV infections rise.
These three illnesses share similar early symptoms, but a study from the University of Southern California has pinpointed the exact sequence in which Covid-19 symptoms typically occur, potentially aiding in distinguishing it from other respiratory threats.
The symptom order is crucial, with experts advising those who experience this progression to get tested and isolate. Dr Robert Glatter said that unlike Covid-19, "patients with seasonal flu more commonly developed a cough before the onset of fever".
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Tracking the symptom sequence can also assist healthcare providers in diagnosis and treatment, according to Joseph Larsen, USC Dornsife doctoral candidate and lead author of the study, who said: "Knowing that each illness progresses differently means that doctors can identify sooner whether someone likely has Covid-19, or another illness, which can help them make better treatment decisions."
The new XEC Covid strain is stirring concerns as it mirrors previous variants, being a mishmash of omicron subvariants. Dr Monica Gandhi, MD, MPH, from the University of California, has said: "The symptoms seem to be the same as with other recent subvariants of Omicron."
She also warned that certain groups might experience more severe symptoms, such as serious lower respiratory tract issues like pneumonia.
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