XEC COVID-19 Variant: Federal Government Confirms No Cases in Nigeria
Rumors about the presence of the XEC COVID-19 variant in Nigeria have been confirmed as false by the Federal Government (FG).
According to the FG, the information was debunked following the recent outbreak of the XEC COVID-19 variant in Australia and other European countries. The Federal Government clarified that this virus has not been detected in Nigeria.
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This announcement was made by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Mr. Kachollum Daju, during a meeting with the committee of Chief Medical Directors. He emphasized that the purpose of the announcement was to alert health authorities and ensure precautionary measures are in place, not to create unnecessary fear in the country.
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 a high level of vigilance for patients presenting with COVID-like symptoms.
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The letter, signed by Dr. O.N. Anuma, Head of the Teaching Hospital Division, on behalf of the Permanent Secretary, called for collaboration with relevant stakeholders to share critical data about the variant and implement enhanced 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 demonstrated a growth advantage over other circulating strains, raising concerns about its potential impact on public health. Alert systems should be immediately activated across our hospitals with a high index of suspicion for patients exhibiting COVID-like symptoms,” the letter stated.
Mr. Daju further highlighted that the XEC COVID-19 variant has been reported in 29 countries. With the festive season approaching and increased travel from various parts of the world, he stressed the importance of hospitals implementing measures to prevent the country from being caught unprepared.
