New COVID-19 variants KP.3 and XEC raise concerns ahead of winter

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As autumn and winter approach in the northern hemisphere, two new COVID-19 variants, KP.3 and XEC, are being closely monitored due to their increased spread. KP.3, a variant of concern in the United States, and its sub-variant KP.3.1.1 have shown higher transmissibility. XEC, a recombinant variant linked to KP.3, was first detected in Germany in June.

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) identified KP.3 as the predominant variant in the US in mid-August. In response, the CDC has recommended updated COVID-19 vaccines for the 2024-2025 season to help address these variants.

While these variants are more transmissible, there is currently no evidence to suggest they cause more severe illness. However, vulnerable populations, such as the elderly and young children, are considered at higher risk from these variants.

The FLiRT variants, which include KP.3 and XEC, are part of the omicron lineage, which remains the dominant strain globally. Health authorities are continuing to monitor the spread and impact of these variants as part of ongoing public health measures.