The Federal Government, through the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, has urged health authorities across the country to activate heightened alert systems in response to the newly detected XEC COVID-19 variant, which is spreading rapidly across the globe.
XEC is the latest variant being monitored as the COVID-19 virus continues to evolve. The strain, first identified in Australia, has now been confirmed in 29 countries.
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In a letter dated December 5, the ministry’s Permanent Secretary and Head of the Teaching Hospital Division, Dr. O.N. Anuma, addressed the directive to the Committee of Chief Medical Directors and Medical Directors.
The letter 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.”
Anuma emphasized the importance of vigilance and immediate action, saying, “Alert systems should be immediately activated throughout our hospitals for high index of suspicion in patients with COVID-like symptoms.”
The ministry also stressed the need for collaboration and timely information-sharing among health institutions and stakeholders to ensure an effective response to the new variant.
“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,” Anuma stated.
This development follows earlier reports in September which revealed that the XEC variant had already spread to 27 countries, including France and the United States, infecting over 600 people. The variant was first identified in Germany in June, with additional cases reported in the UK, US, Denmark, and several other countries.
Scientists believe that XEC carries new mutations that may enhance its transmissibility this season. However, they noted that existing vaccines should still provide protection against severe cases.
