THE Federal Government has clarified that the newly identified XEC COVID-19 variant, detected in Australia and several European countries, is not present in Nigeria.
Kachollum Daju, of 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 issued as a precautionary measure, not to incite panic.
Daju further stated that the XEC COVID-19 variant has been detected in 29 countries.
Given the festive season and the influx of international travelers, it is essential for hospitals to take proactive measures to prevent the country from being unprepared.
In a letter dated December 5, 2024, the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare urged health institutions to heighten alert systems and remain vigilant for patients exhibiting COVID-like symptoms.
The Head of the Teaching Hospital Division, signed by Dr. O.N. Anuma, on behalf of the Permanent Secretary, the letter emphasized collaboration with stakeholders to share critical information about the variant and enforce enhanced monitoring protocols.
“I am directed to inform you of the newly detected XEC COVID-19 variant, reported in Australia and currently spread across 29 countries. This variant has demonstrated a growth advantage over other circulating strains, raising concerns about its potential public health impact,” the letter stated.
The letter called for immediate activation of alert systems in hospitals and emphasized the need for timely information sharing among relevant stakeholders, including the Federal Ministry of Health, to enable an effective response.
The Permanent Secretary underscored the importance of preventive measures during this period to safeguard against the potential introduction of the variant into Nigeria.
Comments are closed.