The federal government has issued a public warning and put health facilities on alert following the newly identified XEC COVID-19 variant, which has now spread to 29 countries worldwide.
This variant was first reported in Australia and has shown a growth advantage over other circulating strains, raising concerns about its potential impact on public health.
The XEC variant is a recombinant strain, meaning it is a hybrid of two pre-existing COVID subvariants. It has mutations that may affect how the virus behaves or its potential impact on human health.
To address this concern, the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, has written the Chairman, Committee of Chief Medical Directors/Medical Directors of Federal Tertiary Hospitals, advising hospitals to activate their alert systems and be on high alert for patients with COVID-like symptoms.
The letter titled: “Letter of conveyance in respect of the newly detected xec covid-19 strain”, with DHS/INSPDIV/017/VOL.1/46 and dated December 5, 2024, was signed by Dr. O. N. Anuma, Head, Teaching Hospital Division for the Permanent Secretary.
The government tasked the committee to collaborate with all relevant stakeholders to share critical data regarding this strain and implement enhanced monitoring protocols, which it said will be vital for effective response strategies.
The letter SaharaReporters obtained on Saturday partly read: “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 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 stake holders including Federal Ministry of Health will be vital for effective response strategies.
“Please accept, as always, the assurances of the Permanent Secretary’s warm regards.”
Meanwhile, here are some key things to know about the XEC variant:
“Transmission: The XEC variant is highly transmissible and has spread to many countries.
“Symptoms: The symptoms of the XEC variant are similar to those of other COVID-19 strains, including cough, congestion, diarrhea, fever, and shortness of breath.
“Vaccination: The updated COVID-19 vaccines are expected to provide protection against the XEC variant, although the effectiveness may vary.
“Prevention: The usual precautions to prevent COVID-19 infection apply, including staying away from people who are sick, wearing a mask in crowded indoor spaces, and following other recommendations provided by the CDC.”
