The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare has clarified that the new COVID variant XEC has not been detected in Nigeria.
This was contained in a statement by the Deputy Director Information & PR, Alaba Balogun, in a letter dated 6th of December, 2024.
This is following contrary circulating reports, suggesting a resurgence of COVID-19 in the country.
“Since the COVID variant XEC has not been detected in Nigeria, it has therefore become imperative to address and correct the misinformation circulating on social media regarding a supposed resurgence of COVID-19 in the country.
“We urge the public to disregard the contents of a letter (Ref. No.DHS/INSPDIV/017/VOL.1/46, dated 5th December 2024) that has been widely shared online. Citizens are advised to remain calm, rely on verified information from official sources, and continue their daily activities as usual.”
NPO reports that the newly detected COVID variant XEC, was reported in Australia and has spread to about 29 Countries globally and has shown a more virulence over other circulating strains with concern over its possible impact on service delivery in our Federal Tertiary Hospitals.
“However, the good news is that there is no evidence of COVID variant XEC in Nigeria.
“In light of the above the general public is advised not to panic but continue with the universal precautions of observing personal hygiene including regular washing of hands.
“The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare through her agencies has stepped up surveillance including at all entry points to Nigeria
“The Federal Government has proactively upgraded our Federal Tertiary Hospitals by establishing Molecular Laboratories, Isolation centers, and intensive care units equipped with ventilators.”