Nigeria’s health authorities raise alert over the XEC COVID-19 variant spreading globally, urging vigilance and enhanced protocols.

[dropcap]T[/dropcap]he Federal Government of Nigeria, through the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, has directed health institutions nationwide to activate heightened alert systems following the global spread of the XEC COVID-19 variant.

The XEC strain, first identified in Australia, has now been reported in 29 countries and is raising concerns due to its apparent growth advantage over other variants.

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In a letter dated 5 December 2024, addressed to the Committee of Chief Medical Directors and Medical Directors, Dr O.N. Anuma, Permanent Secretary and Head of the Teaching Hospital Division, stressed the urgency of the situation.

“I am directed to inform you of the newly detected XEC COVID-19 variant reported in Australia and already spreading globally.

This variant has shown a growth advantage over other strains, raising concerns about its potential public health impact,” the letter stated.

Dr Anuma urged medical professionals to maintain a high index of suspicion for patients presenting with COVID-like symptoms and to activate monitoring systems across hospitals.

The directive emphasised collaboration between health institutions and the Federal Ministry of Health to monitor the spread of the variant and develop effective strategies.

“We request your committee to collaborate with all relevant stakeholders to share critical data regarding this strain and implement enhanced monitoring protocols,” Dr Anuma wrote.

Timely information-sharing and coordination among healthcare providers are critical for managing the variant’s potential impact.

First identified in Germany in June, the XEC variant has since emerged in countries such as the UK, US, Denmark, and France.

According to scientists, the strain features mutations that may enhance its transmissibility, although vaccines are expected to provide protection against severe illness.

By September, the variant had spread to 27 countries, infecting over 600 people. Its rapid expansion has drawn attention from health authorities worldwide, including Nigeria, where proactive measures are now being implemented.

As Nigeria braces for the potential impact of the XEC COVID-19 variant, the Federal Ministry of Health has reiterated the importance of vigilance, collaboration, and preparedness to safeguard public health.

Healthcare workers and institutions are advised to enhance surveillance and adhere to updated protocols to mitigate the spread of the variant while ensuring the timely dissemination of information.

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