By Miracle Ogunde
Following the circulation of the newly detected XEC COVID-19 variant in 29 countries globally, the federal government has directed teaching hospitals nationwide to immediately activate alert systems throughout the hospitals for a high index of suspicion in patients with COVID-like symptoms.
A circular with reference number DHS/INSPDIV/017/VOL.1/46 and dated 5th December 2024, the Head of Teaching Hospital Division for Permanent Secretary, Dr. O. N. Anuma, alerted that the new variant has shown a growth advantage over other circulating strains, raising concerns about its potential impact on public health.
According to the letter entitled “Letter of Conveyance in Respect of the Newly Detected XEC COVID-19 SRTAIN”, the letter said, “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.”
It further explained that alert systems should be immediately activated throughout the hospitals for a high index of suspicion in patients with COVID-like symptoms.
It also requested that committees collaborate with all relevant stakeholders to share critical data regarding the strain and implement enhanced monitoring protocols, saying that timely information sharing among relevant stakeholders, including the Federal Ministry of Health, will be vital for effective response strategies.
The letter solicited, “Please accept, as always, the assurances of the permanent secretary’s warm regards.”
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