The Federal Government has confirmed that the recently identified XEC COVID-19 variant, which has emerged in Australia and several European nations, is not present in Nigeria.
Kachollum Daju, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, emphasized that a letter that recently surfaced, which was sent to the Committee of Chief Medical Directors and Medical Directors, was meant as a precautionary measure and not to incite fear.
In a communication dated December 5, 2024, the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare urged health officials to activate increased alert systems in hospitals and to maintain a vigilant approach towards patients exhibiting COVID-like symptoms.
The letter, signed by Dr. O.N. Anuma, the Head of the Teaching Hospital Division, on behalf of the Permanent Secretary, called for collaboration with key stakeholders to exchange vital information about the variant and to implement improved monitoring strategies.
“I am directed to inform you of a newly detected XEC COVID-19 variant, which has been reported in Australia and has already spread to 29 countries globally. You may wish to know that this variant has shown a growth advantage over other circulating strains, raising concerns about its potential impact on public health. Alert systems should be immediately activated throughout our hospitals for high index of suspicion in patients with COVID-like symptoms.”
Daju reported that the XEC COVID-19 variant has been identified in 29 countries. With the festive season bringing in travelers from around the globe, it is essential for hospitals to take proactive steps to prevent the country from being unprepared.
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