In response to the growing threat of the newly detected XEC COVID-19 variant, Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare has increased surveillance at all entry points to the country.
The XEC variant, first reported in Australia, has spread to 29 countries globally, raising alarms among health experts worldwide.
While there is no evidence of the variant in Nigeria, the government is taking proactive measures to safeguard public health.
“The Federal Ministry of Health is closely monitoring the situation and has stepped up surveillance at all points of entry into Nigeria,” a statement from the ministry read.
Authorities are especially concerned about the potential impact of the XEC variant, which has demonstrated a growth advantage over other circulating COVID strains.
The variant’s increased virulence has sparked fear due to its possible effects on health systems, including the capacity of Nigerian hospitals to manage a potential surge in cases.
However, the government has assured Nigerians that, as of now, there are no confirmed cases of the XEC variant in the country.
“The good news is that there is no evidence of COVID variant XEC in Nigeria,” the statement from the Ministry of Health confirmed.
The government’s statement, signed by Alaba Balogun, the Deputy Director of Information and Public Relations, urged Nigerians to remain calm.
“Do not panic,” the Ministry urged. “Continue to observe personal hygiene, including washing your hands regularly.”
Despite the reassurance, some members of the public have expressed concerns after reports of the variant’s rapid spread overseas. The Ministry emphasized that the situation is being closely monitored.
In an effort to curb misinformation, the Ministry also urged Nigerians to disregard rumors circulating on social media about a resurgence of COVID-19.
A letter widely shared online, purportedly referring to the spread of the XEC variant, was dismissed by the government as misleading. “We urge the public to rely on verified information from official sources,” the Ministry stated.
The letter further emphasized the government’s commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s healthcare infrastructure in preparation for any potential challenges posed by emerging diseases.
The Federal Ministry of Health has already invested in upgrading facilities at Federal Tertiary Hospitals, including the establishment of Molecular Laboratories and Isolation Centers.
Additionally, intensive care units (ICUs) have been equipped with ventilators to ensure that hospitals are prepared to respond effectively to any new health threats.
The Ministry reiterated its commitment to ensuring the uninterrupted delivery of healthcare services across the country.
While the public has been advised not to panic, the government’s action to step up surveillance at all entry points demonstrates the seriousness with which Nigeria is responding to the threat posed by the new variant.
In addition to surveillance, health officials are working with other agencies to monitor the situation globally and ensure that any potential threats are quickly identified and addressed.
“The mandate of the Federal Ministry of Health is to develop and implement policies that strengthen the national health system for effective, efficient, accessible, and affordable delivery of healthcare services in partnership with other stakeholders,” the statement concluded.
The outbreak of the XEC variant is a stark reminder of the continued global threat posed by COVID-19, even as countries around the world are focused on recovery efforts.
As cases of the XEC variant continue to emerge worldwide, Nigeria is taking all necessary precautions to ensure that its citizens are protected.
