The Federal Government of Nigeria, through the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, has issued a warning to hospitals to be on high alert and vigilant, following the detection of the new XEC COVID-19 variant.
This advisory comes as health authorities globally monitor the emergence of a highly mutated variant, which have raised concerns about their potential resistance to existing immunity from vaccines and prior infections.
In a letter dated December 5, made available to the press, the directive, addressed to the Committee of Chief Medical Directors and Medical Directors by Dr. O.N. Anuma, Permanent Secretary and Head of the Teaching Hospital Division, he 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.”
In the letter, Dr. Anuma further states the urgency for vigilance and immediate action. “Alert systems should be immediately activated throughout our hospitals for high index of suspicion in patients with COVID-like symptoms,”
Hospitals are expected to adhere to this directive to strengthen surveillance, ensure adherence to safety protocols, and prepare for a possible rise in cases.
