This XE variant is a mutation of the Omicron strains BA.1 and BA.2. Some of the symptoms reported with strain XE include fever, sore throat, scratch in the throat, cough and cold. Read more:Statement from NI Health Department as a new variant of XE Covid found in the UK A spokesman for the Public Health Service said: “A total of 1,179 XE cases have been confirmed in the UK so far. “To date, a small number of confirmed cases (less than five) have been identified in Northern Ireland. All appropriate health measures have been taken.” The PHA spokesman added: “Recombinant variants are not uncommon, especially when many variants are circulating and several have been identified during the pandemic to date. “The best way to stop the growth or spread of the virus is to continue to reduce the rate of infection and the transmission of the virus to our community. “By following public health advice, vaccination, use of face masks in crowded indoor environments where ventilation is inadequate, and especially when visiting hospitals and other health and care facilities and around people who are known to be vulnerable, we can all play a role in tackling Covid-19. “ Read more related articles Read more related articles
What is XE?
XE is a mutation of the Omicron strains BA.1 and BA.2 and is referred to as “recombinant”. This happens when two variants meet while multiplying and decide to evolve by sharing genome or traits. Once this happens, a recombinant variant is born.
When was it first detected in the UK?
The variant was first identified in the United Kingdom in January.
What are the symptoms reported with the variant?
Symptoms of the XE Omicron variant include some of the most common Covid symptoms Includes:
High temperature or chills (chills) A new, constant cough Breathing difficulty Feeling tired Body aches Headaches Sore throat Loss of appetite Diarrhea Feeling unwell or sick
The latest Covid data in Northern Ireland
The Ministry of Health said that its data on Covid will not be updated during the Easter period and the next update will be issued on Tuesday.
On Thursday, 791 positive cases of the virus were recorded in the last 24 hours. Five deaths were also reported during the same period. As of Thursday, a total of 3,771,657 vaccines have been administered. Read more: Symptoms reported by those infected with a new Covid strain Read more: Robin Swann says new health minister will have “a lot of work to do” For the latest breaking news directly to your inbox, subscribe to our newsletter here.
