The federal government has directed all chief and medical directors of tertiary hospitals to immediately activate hospital-wide alert systems for patients exhibiting COVID-like symptoms, warranting a high index of suspicion.
This follows the circulation of the newly detected XEC COVID-19 variant in 29 countries globally.
A circular with reference number DHS/INSPDIV/017/VOL.1/46 and dated 5th December 2024, from the Head of Teaching Hospital Division for Permanent Secretary, Dr. O. N. Anuma, alerted that the new variant has shown a growth advantage over other circulating strains, raising concerns about its potential impact on public health.
The letter further explained that alert systems should be immediately activated throughout the hospitals for a high index of suspicion in patients with COVID-like symptoms.
It also requested that committees collaborate with all relevant stakeholders to share critical data regarding the strain and implement enhanced monitoring protocols, emphasizing that timely information sharing among relevant stakeholders, including the Federal Ministry of Health, will be vital for effective response strategies.
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