The federal government has directed all the chief medical directors and medical directors of tertiary hospitals to immediately activate alert systems throughout the hospitals for a high index of suspicion in patients with COVID-like symptoms.
This followed the circulation of the newly detected XEC COVID-19 variant in 29 countries globally.
A circular dated 5th December 2024, 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.
According to the letter, XEC COVID-19 variant, which has been reported in Australia and has already spread to 29 countries globally has shown a growth advantage over other circulating strains, raising concerns about its potential impact on public health.”
It further explained that alert systems should be immediately activated throughout the hospitals for a high index of suspicion in patients with COVID-like symptoms.
