Breaking News: FG Shuts Down Fears, XEC COVID Variant Missing In Nigeria!

Breaking News: FG Shuts Down Fears, XEC COVID Variant Missing In Nigeria!

The Federal Government has clarified that the XEC COVID-19 variant…READ MORE…

has not been detected in Nigeria.

In a statement issued on Saturday, the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, through Deputy Director Alaba Balogun, reassured the public that fears regarding the resurgence of COVID-19 due to this variant are unfounded. The Ministry emphasized that misinformation circulating on social media, including a letter dated December 5 that falsely claimed the variant had reached Nigeria, should be disregarded.

Balogun explained that while the XEC variant—first detected in Australia and now in 29 countries worldwide—has shown more virulence than other circulating strains, there is no evidence of its presence in Nigeria. He urged the public to remain calm and continue practicing essential hygiene measures, such as regular handwashing.

Furthermore, the Ministry has strengthened surveillance at all entry points to Nigeria. The Federal Government has also enhanced the capacity of federal tertiary hospitals by establishing molecular laboratories, isolation units, and ICU facilities with ventilators.

The XEC variant, a sub-variant of the Omicron strain of SARS-CoV-2, was first reported in May 2024 and has spread to 43 countries across Europe, Asia, and North America. Notably, only Botswana has reported a case, linked to a European traveler.

The Ministry’s statement underscores that Nigerians need not panic but should adhere to basic health guidelines as the country remains vigilant.

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