The XEC variant of COVID-19, a recombinant strain, has symptoms similar to previous variants like Omicron. These include fever, cough, sore throat, muscle aches, fatigue, and headaches. Some cases also report gastrointestinal issues like nausea and diarrhea. In Canada, XEC is spreading, but experts believe it will have a similar impact to previous variants, particularly affecting vulnerable groups such as the elderly and immunocompromised.