The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare has placed Nigeria on high alert following the detection of a new COVID-19 variant, XEC, which has spread to 29 countries worldwide. While there is currently no evidence of the variant’s presence in Nigeria, the government has reassured citizens of its proactive measures to prevent and manage potential outbreaks.
In a statement signed by Alaba Balogun, the Director of Information and Public Relations, the ministry acknowledged the concerns surrounding the XEC variant, noting its “growth advantage over other circulating strains.” This characteristic has raised global alarms about the variant’s potential to spread rapidly and impact public health systems.
To strengthen the nation’s defense against the virus, the ministry highlighted several steps already taken:
- Enhanced Surveillance: The government has heightened monitoring at all points of entry, including airports, seaports, and land borders. Travelers are being subjected to stricter health checks and screenings.
- Hospital Upgrades: Federal tertiary hospitals across the country have been equipped with advanced facilities. These include molecular laboratories for COVID-19 testing, isolation centers for treating confirmed cases, and intensive care units fitted with ventilators to handle severe infections.
- Public Awareness Campaigns: Efforts to educate the public on preventive measures have been ramped up. Citizens are encouraged to maintain regular hand washing, proper hygiene, and other safety practices.
The ministry also addressed rumors circulating on social media about a resurgence of COVID-19 in the country. A letter falsely claiming an imminent outbreak was dismissed as misinformation. Nigerians were urged to rely on official updates from the ministry and avoid spreading unverified information.
“Disregard any unverified reports circulating online. The Federal Ministry of Health is committed to providing accurate and timely information as the situation evolves,” Balogun stated.
While urging citizens to remain calm, the ministry emphasized the importance of continued vigilance. Key recommendations include:
Regular hand washing with soap and water or the use of hand sanitizers.
Avoiding overcrowded places when possible.
Adhering to any public health guidelines issued by relevant authorities.
The emergence of the XEC variant has sparked global concern, with health authorities closely monitoring its transmissibility and potential resistance to vaccines. The World Health Organization (WHO) has encouraged member states to share data and collaborate on containment strategies.
In Nigeria, the government’s preparedness reflects lessons learned from previous COVID-19 waves. Officials are committed to preventing the spread of the XEC variant while ensuring that citizens can carry on their daily lives safely.
As the global situation develops, Nigerians are urged to remain informed and adhere to public health measures to minimize risks. For now, the nation remains vigilant but unaffected, offering a measure of reassurance amid international uncertainty.
