The Federal Government has urged health authorities to activate heightened alert systems due to the rapid global spread of the newly detected XEC COVID-19 variant.
This directive follows the confirmation of the strain, initially identified in Australia, but now confirmed in 29 countries.
XEC is the latest in a long list of past and current COVID variants being monitored as the COVID-19 virus naturally evolves.
This information was included in a letter dated December 5, made available to Credible News on Saturday. The letter, addressed to the Committee of Chief Medical Directors and Medical Directors, was issued by Dr. O.N. Anuma, Head of the Teaching Hospital Division.
The letter read: “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 highlighted the importance of vigilance and prompt action.
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“Alert systems should be immediately activated throughout our hospitals for high index of suspicion in patients with COVID-like symptoms,” he stated.
The directive also emphasized the need for collaboration and timely information-sharing between health institutions and the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare to ensure an effective response.
Medical professionals are also urged to enhance monitoring protocols and share critical data on the XEC 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,” he warned.
In September, XEC had spread across 27 countries, including France and the United States, infecting more than 600 people.XEC, first identified in Germany in June, has since spread to the UK, US, Denmark, and other countries, with new mutations that could aid its spread this autumn, though scientists believe vaccines should still help prevent severe cases.
Credible News.ng
