The new COVID variant — XEC, has not been detected in Nigeria, the Federal Government has assured.
According to a statement issued by the Deputy Director, Information and Public Relations of the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Alaba Balogun, in Abuja, the government deemed it proper to dispel the fear and misinformation and of the public with regard to the said resurgence of COVID-19 in Nigeria.
He urged Nigerians to ignore the contents of a letter, circulating on social media, with Ref.No.DHS/INSPDIV/017/VOL.1/46 dated Dec. 5, implying that the variant was in Nigeria, as it was cautionary.
The statement said: “You may recall that a newly detected COVID variant, XEC, was reported in Australia and has spread to 29 countries globally, showing more virulence over other circulating strains with concern over its possible impact on service delivery in our federal tertiary hospitals,” he said.
“However, the good news is that there is no evidence of COVID variant XEC in Nigeria.
“In light of the above, the public is advised not to panic but to continue with the universal precautions of observing personal hygiene, including regular washing of hands.”
According to him, the ministry, has intensified surveillance, through her agencies, Including at all entry points to Nigeria.