The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare has issued a critical alert regarding the detection of a new COVID-19 strain, referred to as the XEC variant.
This variant, first reported in Australia, has spread to 29 countries globally, raising significant public health concerns due to its potential growth advantage over existing strains.
In a letter addressed to the Committee of Chief Medical Directors and Medical Directors, Dr. O.N. Anuma, Head of the Teaching Hospital Division, emphasized the urgency of activating alert systems across all healthcare facilities.
The letter calls for heightened vigilance in diagnosing patients exhibiting COVID-like symptoms.
Furthermore, the Ministry has urged the Committee to collaborate with stakeholders to facilitate data sharing and implement enhanced monitoring protocols.
Timely and efficient information exchange is deemed vital for developing effective response strategies to manage the new strain.
The letter concludes with assurances of continued support and cooperation from the Federal Ministry of Health in addressing this emerging public health challenge.
