Uncovering symptoms of new COVID variants in 2025

Medically reviewed by Dr. Betsy Koickel, MD on April 22nd, 2025.

Similar to other seasonal viruses, the SARS-CoV02 virus that causes COVID-19 continues to mutate and spread, particularly during the colder winter months. This year, two primary strains are spreading globally as of early 2025, LP.8.1 and XEC.

What can you expect from these new variants? Are the symptoms of the COVID XEC variant more severe than previous strains? What steps can you take to stay healthy this year? See below.

Key differences between COVID variant XEC and previous strains

The new strains of COVID-19 that were circulating through the winter months were the LP.8.1 and XEC. These have surpassed the FLiRT variants, which were the primary strains in the 2023-2024 season. These new COVID variants seem to be less severe than the previous strains, as emergency department visits for COVID are down 9.8%. 

The new COVID variant symptoms remain relatively the same as the previous strains, as it remains mostly a respiratory illness. For many, symptoms may be less severe with these new variants due to pre-existing immunity from vaccines and previous infections. 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) still recommends vaccination as the best way to prevent severe infection, particularly for those at high risk. 

XEC variant COVID symptoms

The new COVID-19 XEC variant symptoms are similar to those of previous strains, including:

• Congestion
• Cough
• Diarrhea
• Fatigue
• Fever and chills
• Headaches
• Loss of taste or smell
• Muscle soreness and aches
• Nausea
• Shortness of breath
• Sore throat
• Vomiting
  

There is no indication that any new COVID-19 variants are causing different symptoms. The virus will continue to evolve, which is why the CDC continues to monitor symptom severity. At this time, the new variants appear less severe than previous strains. 

Current COVID-19 variant landscape (March 2025)

The LP.8.1 and XEC are the most widely circulating strains of COVID-19 as of March 2025. According to the CDC, these two variants make up 73% of new COVID-19 cases. The previous omicron variants, including KP.3.1.1, MC.10.1, and LF.7, are still circulating, just in smaller quantities.

There is no evidence that the currently circulating variants are more severe than the previous omicron variants. 

COVID-19 Vaccine Effectiveness Against Current Variants

Vaccination is the best way to prevent severe symptoms from new COVID variants. The vaccines have been designed for the new variants, and therefore it is recommended to get a booster shot every 6-12 months, particularly for those at high risk. Vaccination helps lower the risk of severe illness, hospitalization and long COVID. 

XEC variant FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about the new COVID variants. 

How long is the new COVID variant contagious?

Similar to previous strains, most people with COVID-19 can resume normal activities once symptoms begin to improve, and they are fever-free for 24 hours. If you prefer to be more cautious, you can wear a mask for up to 5 days after an infection. Depending on the severity of your symptoms, further isolation or testing might be recommended to ensure you are no longer contagious. 

How long after exposure to the new COVID variant do symptoms appear?

Symptoms typically appear between two to 14 days after exposure to the new variant and last up to two weeks. 

Who is most at risk of the new COVID strain?

The new COVID strain appears to be better at evading immunity from a previous infection or vaccine. Therefore, most people are at risk of infection if exposed. Those who are elderly or immune-compromised are more likely to experience severe disease. 

How do I know which COVID variant I have? 

You likely will not know which COVID variant you have, as standard COVID testing does not identify specific strains. Since symptoms are similar between variants, the treatment you may require does not vary depending on the strain. 

Are home COVID tests still reliable?

Yes, at-home COVID tests are reliable but may not detect an early infection. If you believe you have COVID but have tested negative, it is recommended that you repeat the test after 48 hours. 

Visit urgent care centers for new variant testing

During this winter season, many viruses are circulating, including RSV, the flu, and COVID-19. Strep throat can also cause symptoms similar to those of these viruses, although it is not a viral infection. Unfortunately, you can have multiple viruses at once, which could make you feel awful.

If you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 or another virus and want to confirm the diagnosis or get treatment options, start by finding the center nearest you. We offer rapid and other COVID-19 testing options at all our urgent care centers. 

Once you locate your closest center, just walk in or save your spot online. If you are unsure if you need an in-person visit, schedule a virtual visit with one of our knowledgeable providers. 

We look forward to helping you feel better soon!

References:

1. https://covid.cdc.gov/covid-data-tracker/#maps_percent-covid-ed
2. https://www.cdc.gov/covid/vaccines/stay-up-to-date.html
3. https://www.cdc.gov/covid/signs-symptoms/index.html
4. https://covid.cdc.gov/covid-data-tracker/#variant-proportions
5. https://www.cdc.gov/covid/vaccines/benefits.html
6. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/covid-guidelines