The coronavirus subvariant XEC is drawing more attention as a potential threat heading into late autumn and winter — prompting doctors to urge residents to get an updated COVID vaccine.

A new COVID variant has emerged, with some scientists saying it could soon be the dominant strain of the virus. While global cases of the XEC variant remain small in number, it may "represent a sizeable proportion" of infections by the winter.

Researchers indicate that the vaccine and booster shots should protect against the new variant. Here is what we know about the XEC variant and what you can do to stay healthy.

While XEC is not dominant in the United States, it could take hold by the late fall and winter, one health expert said in a newspaper interview.

The new "XEC" COVID-19 variant spreading rapidly in Europe has arrived in the US. What are the symptoms, will it cause a fall surge, and are vaccines effective? Experts discuss

Another COVID-19 variant is on the rise this fall, hot on the heels of a massive summer surge of the virus. The variant, called XEC, is appearing worldwide. The SARS-CoV-2 virus mutation has also been spotted in at least half of the United States,