Public Health: Nigerian Government alerts health authorities to new XEC COVID-19 variant, clarifies no evidence of disease in country

*The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare explains the newly-detected XEC COVID-19 variant, reportedly detected in 29 countries, is not in Nigeria, urging health authorities to activate heightened alert systems across hospitals and maintain a high index of suspicion for patients with COVID-like symptoms

Isola Moses | ConsumerConnect

Sequel to the detection of the disease variant in 29 countries of the world, the Federal Government has explained the newly-detected XEC COVID-19 variant is not in Nigeria.

ConsumerConnect reports medical experts have identified the XEC COVID-19 variant, which is reported to have spread to Australia, and some other countries in Europe.

Kachollom Shangti Daju, mni, Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, has reportedly confirmed that a recently leaked letter DHS/INSPDIV/017/Vol.1/46, dated December 5, 2024, and addressed to the Chairman, Committee of Chief Medical Directors and Medical Directors was only precautionary, and not intended to cause panic among the Nigerian publics.

Daju noted the XEC COVID-19 variant has been detected in 29 countries, and due to the festive season, when travellers arrive from various parts of the world, it is crucial for hospitals to implement measures to ensure the country is not caught off guard.

Dr. O. N. Anuma, Head of the Teaching Hospital Division of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, in the letter earlier signed on behalf of the Permanent Secretary, had urged health authorities to activate heightened alert systems across hospitals and maintain a high index of suspicion for patients with COVID-like symptoms.

The Permanent Secretary equally emphasised the significance of preventive measures during and after the festive period in order to prevent any potential spread of the variant into Nigeria.

The Ministry solicited collaboration with relevant stakeholders to share critical data regarding the variant and implement enhanced monitoring protocols.

Anuma stated: “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 also noted: “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.”