Newly detected XEC COVID-19 variant not in Nigeria – FG

The Federal Government has clarified that the newly detected XEC COVID-19 variant, identified in Australia and some other countries, is not present in Nigeria.

The Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, in a brief chat with The Guardian, explained that a recently leaked letter addressed to the Committee of Chief Medical Directors and Medical Directors was precautionary and not intended to cause panic.

She noted that the XEC COVID-19 variant has been detected in 29 countries. Given 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.

In the letter, dated December 5, 2024, the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare urged health authorities to activate heightened alert systems across hospitals and maintain a high index of suspicion for patients with COVID-like symptoms.

Signed by the Head of the Teaching Hospital Division, Dr O.N. Anuma, on behalf of the Permanent Secretary, the letter called for collaboration with relevant stakeholders to share critical data regarding the variant and implement enhanced monitoring protocols.

It 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.

“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 stressed the importance of precautionary measures during this period to prevent any potential spread of the variant into Nigeria.