No Detection of COVID Variant XEC in Nigeria – Ministry of Health Reassures

The Federal Ministry of Health has assured Nigerians that there is no evidence of the newly detected COVID-19 variant, XEC, in the country.

This clarification was made in a press release issued on December 6, 2024, by Alaba Balogun, Deputy Director of Information and Public Relations, in response to concerns over misinformation circulating on social media.

The XEC variant, first reported in Australia, has been identified in 29 countries globally and is noted for its higher virulence compared to other strains.

Despite this, the Ministry emphasized that there is no cause for alarm in Nigeria.

“The general public is advised not to panic but to continue observing universal precautions, including regular handwashing,” the statement read.

To further reassure Nigerians, the Ministry outlined proactive measures in place, including enhanced surveillance at entry points and the upgrading of Federal Tertiary Hospitals with molecular laboratories, isolation centers, and intensive care units equipped with ventilators.

The ministry also urged citizens to disregard a circulating letter, referenced as Ref. No. DHS/INSPDIV/017/VOL.1/46, which allegedly fueled fears of a COVID-19 resurgence. Nigerians were encouraged to go about their daily activities while adhering to personal hygiene protocols.

“The Federal Government has proactively upgraded our Federal Tertiary Hospitals by establishing Molecular Laboratories, Isolation centers, and intensive care units equipped with ventilators,” the statement added.