Health Female: What to Know About the Omicron XE Variant

Wednesday, April 6, 2022

What to Know About the Omicron XE Variant

By Stephanie Cornwell, Editorial Assistant

To my knowledge, I've never had COVID, and I'd like to keep it that way. So, anytime there is a new variant, I get a bit nervous. But experts don't seem too worried about Omicron XE.

Today's Top Story

Omicron XE Is Not Yet Cause for Concern

Even though it was identified in the United Kingdom back in January, a COVID-19 subvariant called "Omicron XE" is making headlines this week. XE is a recombinant variant: a hybrid of the Omicron BA.1 and BA.2 strains.

Recombinant viruses appear when two or more strains swap genetic material, creating a hybrid virus with characteristics of each strain. A recombinant virus can be expected when multiple variants of a virus are circulating. It does not mean there is cause for concern.

More than 600 cases of XE have been reported in the U.K. since January. There are not yet any cases in the U.S.

While early estimates predict this variant is 10% more transmissible than BA.2, there is not enough evidence to judge its transmissibility, severity, or vaccine effectiveness.

Know More

Wondering how variants get their names? Scientists give recombinant variants a name starting with the letter 'X,' followed by a letter that helps designate the order of discovery.

Feel Better

The COVID vaccine has been effective against the Omicron variants. Since XE is a hybrid of two Omicron subvariants, vaccines are likely the most effective tool for preventing severe health issues from COVID.

How Do You Know If You Have Long COVID?

A standardized definition of long COVID can help providers diagnose their patients and encourage people to see a healthcare provider. The problem is there isn't really a clear definition. According to the WHO, long COVID occurs about three months from the onset of COVID-19 symptoms and lasts for at least two months. Experts tell Verywell long COVID has more to do with whether or not symptoms develop or persist after the acute phase of COVID than how long they last overall.

Everything You Need to Know About Relationship Counseling

A mental health professional can help strengthen relationship dynamics by offering counseling or therapy. Whether the relationship is between spouses or romantic partners, family members, or friends, a professional is there for emotional support and skills training. Premarital counseling has been shown to increase the success rate of marriages by 30% for couples planning to get married. To find a counselor, ask your health care provider for a recommendation or search online.

In an interview with Verywell, LaTasha Perkins, MD, said that treatment options for long-COVID are tailored to the symptoms.

If you are experiencing a long-term [COVID] symptom, you should connect with your primary care doctor to rule out other illnesses and complications before deciding on a treatment.