The federal government has instructed all chief medical directors and medical directors of tertiary hospitals to promptly implement alert systems across their facilities for heightened vigilance regarding patients exhibiting COVID-like symptoms. This directive comes in response to the emergence of the newly identified XEC COVID-19 variant, which has been reported in 29 countries worldwide.
In a circular referenced as DHS/INSPDIV/017/VOL.1/46, dated December 5, 2024, Dr. O. N. Anuma, the Head of the Teaching Hospital Division for the Permanent Secretary, warned that the new variant has demonstrated a growth advantage over other circulating strains, raising significant concerns about its potential effects on public health.
The letter titled “Letter of Conveyance Regarding the Newly Detected XEC COVID-19 STRAIN” states, “I am directed to inform you about a newly identified XEC COVID-19 variant that has been reported in Australia and has already spread to 29 countries worldwide. (Letter attached) This variant has demonstrated a growth advantage over other circulating strains, raising concerns about its potential impact on public health.”
It further noted that alert systems should be activated immediately across hospitals to maintain a high index of suspicion for patients displaying COVID-like symptoms. Additionally, it urged committees to collaborate with relevant stakeholders to share essential data about the strain and implement enhanced monitoring protocols. Timely information sharing among all relevant parties, including the Federal Ministry of Health, is deemed crucial for effective response strategies.
The letter concluded with, “Please accept, as always, the warm regards of the permanent secretary.”
