COVID-19: Nigeria on red alert as XEC variant spreads to 29 countries

The Federal Government, through the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, on Friday issued a directive to health authorities to activate heightened alert systems in response to the newly detected XEC COVID-19 variant.

This variant has been rapidly spreading across the globe, with confirmed cases in 29 countries.

This was contained in a letter dated December 5 but made available to the press on Saturday, addressed to the Committee of Chief Medical Directors and Medical Directors, by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Head of the Teaching Hospital Division, Dr. O.N. Anuma.

According to Dr. O.N. Anuma, “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.” Anuma emphasized that this variant has shown a growth advantage over other circulating strains, raising concerns about its potential impact on public health.

The directive emphasizes the need 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,” Anuma stated.

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The Federal Government has also highlighted the importance of collaboration and timely information-sharing among health institutions and the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare to ensure an effective response. Medical professionals are urged to enhance monitoring protocols and share critical data on the XEC variant.

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

The XEC variant has spread across 27 countries, including France and the United States, infecting more than 600 people. It was identified in Germany in June, with more cases emerging in the UK, the US, Denmark, and several other countries.

Scientists have noted that XEC has some new mutations that might help it spread, although vaccines should still help prevent severe cases. The World Health Organization has designated XEC as a variant under monitoring, and the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has advised member states to strengthen surveillance and enhance monitoring protocols.

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