FG Alerts Hospitals on New Covid-19 XEC Variant

The Federal Ministry of Health has issued an alert to hospitals across the country regarding a newly detected COVID-19 variant, XEC.

The alert is contained in a letter dated December 5, 2024, signed by Dr. O.N. Anuma, Head, Teaching Hospital Division, for the Permanent Secretary, sent to the Committee of Chief Medical Directors and Medical Directors.

The statement states that the XEC variant was first reported in Australia and has since spread to 29 countries worldwide.

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

The ministry has instructed hospitals to activate alert systems for patients with COVID-like symptoms and collaborate with stakeholders to share critical data on the new variant.

“Timely information sharing among relevant stakeholders, including the Federal Ministry of Health, will be vital for effective response strategies,” the letter emphasised.

The Ministry has not yet detailed any specific actions the public should take regarding the XEC variant.