The Federal Government has clarified that the newly identified XEC COVID-19 variant, reported in Australia and several European countries, has not been detected in Nigeria.
Kachollum Daju, from the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, explained that a recently leaked letter addressed to the Committee of Chief Medical Directors and Medical Directors was precautionary and not intended to cause alarm.
Daju emphasized that the XEC COVID-19 variant has been identified in 29 countries. With the festive season approaching and an expected influx of travelers from various parts of the world, hospitals must implement measures to safeguard the country from potential exposure.
In a letter dated December 5, 2024, the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare urged health authorities to activate heightened alert systems in hospitals and maintain vigilance for patients presenting with COVID-like symptoms.
Signed by Dr. O.N. Anuma, Head of the Teaching Hospital Division, on behalf of the Permanent Secretary, the letter also called for collaboration with stakeholders to share critical data on the variant and enhance monitoring protocols.
“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,” the letter read.
“Alert systems should be immediately activated throughout our hospitals for high index of suspicion in patients with COVID-like symptoms.
“Timely information sharing among relevant stakeholders, including the Federal Ministry of Health, will be vital for effective response strategies.”
The Permanent Secretary emphasized the need for preventive measures during this period to safeguard Nigeria from any potential introduction of the variant.