Nigerian govt warns against new XEC COVID-19 variants confirmed in 29 countries

The federal government, through the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, has directed all the chief medical directors and medical directors of tertiary hospitals to immediately activate alert systems throughout the hospitals for a high index of suspicion in patients with COVID-like symptoms.

The decision was followed by the wide circulation of the newly detected XEC COVID-19 variant in 29 countries globally.

According to a circular with reference number DHS/INSPDIV/017/VOL.1/46 and dated 5th December 2024, which was obtained by The Informant247, the Head of Teaching Hospital Division for Permanent Secretary, Dr. O. N. Anuma alerted that the new variant has shown a growth advantage over other circulating strains, raising concerns about its potential impact on public health.

The letter entitled Letter of Conveyance in Respect of the Newly Detected XEC COVID-19 SRTAIN” reads in part, “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. (Letter attached) 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 a high index of suspicion in patients with COVID-like symptoms.

“We request your committee to collaborate with all} relevant stakeholders to share critical data regarding this strain and implement enhanced monitoring protocols. Timely information sharing among relevant stakeholders, including the Federal Ministry of Health, will be vital for effective response strategies.

“Please accept, as always, the assurances of the permanent secretary’s warm regards.”