Tristel: Your Partner Against the New COVID Strain XEC
As COVID cases rise again in the UK, a new strain called XEC is gaining attention. XEC, a combination of the KS.1.1 and KP.3.3 variants, is spreading rapidly, though it doesn’t appear to cause more severe illness than earlier Omicron variants.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) reports an increase in hospital admissions related to this strain, with 4.5 admissions per 100,000 people in early October. Symptoms of XEC mirror those of previous COVID variants, including tiredness, an aching body, headaches, sore throat, coughing, a blocked or runny nose and high fever.
While self-isolation is no longer mandatory, the NHS recommends staying away from others, especially vulnerable individuals, to help curb the spread.
Chlorine Dioxide: A Powerful Ally in the Fight
In healthcare environments, where infection control is critical, surface disinfection plays a key role in preventing virus transmission. Studies have shown that SARS-CoV-2 can survive on surfaces for up to seven days, making effective surface cleaning and disinfection vital.
Tristel’s Cache portfolio of chlorine dioxide (ClO₂)-based surface disinfectants offers the perfect solution for hospitals facing this challenge. Proven to destroy SARS-CoV-2, even in dirty conditions, Tristel’s chlorine dioxide chemistry complies with the European standard for virucidal activity (EN 14476). It ensures fast and complete inactivation of the virus, including emerging strains like XEC, providing healthcare facilities with a reliable defence against COVID.
As hospitals continue to navigate the continued risk of COVID, Tristel remains committed to supporting infection prevention with cutting-edge products designed to meet the highest standards of safety and efficacy.