The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare has dismissed claims of the presence of the COVID-19 variant XEC in Nigeria, urging citizens to disregard misleading information circulating on social media.
In a statement released on Saturday, the Ministry debunked a purported letter with Ref. No. DHS/INSPDIV/017/VOL.1/46, dated December 5, 2024, that falsely suggested a resurgence of COVID-19 in the country. It reassured Nigerians that there is no evidence of the variant within the nation’s borders.
The Deputy Director of Information and Public Relations, Alaba Balogun, explained that the XEC variant was recently identified in Australia and has since spread to 29 countries. Described as more virulent than other strains, the variant has sparked global concerns about its potential impact on healthcare systems.
In response, the Ministry announced that surveillance measures at all entry points have been intensified. Additionally, federal tertiary hospitals have been upgraded with molecular laboratories, isolation centers, and intensive care units equipped with ventilators to enhance preparedness for any possible outbreaks.
The Ministry emphasized the need for citizens to remain calm, maintain personal hygiene, and practice regular handwashing to prevent disease transmission. It also reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening the national health system through strategic partnerships with stakeholders.
“These efforts ensure efficient, accessible, and affordable healthcare services while coordinating swift responses to emerging infectious diseases,” the statement read.
The Ministry urged the public to rely on official channels for accurate information and assured continued vigilance to protect the nation’s health.
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