A new COVID-19 variant, XEC, has triggered a steep rise in cases across Queensland, with hospitalizations doubling in less than two weeks. The variant accounted for 44% of detected cases in the past fortnight, with daily hospital admissions reaching 258 patients – a 128% increase in less than two weeks. Queensland Chief Health Officer Dr. Heidi Carroll reports that out of 70,023 cases recorded in 2024, 19% required hospitalization. “Most of those being hospitalized are over the age of 65 and not up to date with vaccinations,” Dr. Carroll stated, emphasizing the critical need for vaccination compliance. The data reveals … Continue reading Queensland’s XEC Variant Surge: COVID-19 Hospitalizations Double in Two Weeks