Reps urge action against emerging XEC COVID-19 variant
The House of Representatives, on Tuesday, urged the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare to adopt preventive measures to guard against the outbreak of XEC, a variant of the coronavirus.
The resolution followed a plenary session presided over by the Speaker, Tajudeen Abbas, during which a motion of urgent public importance, sponsored by Mr Unyime Idem, who represents Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency in Akwa Ibom State, was adopted.
Speaking on the motion, the lawmaker noted the profound impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on global public health and economies, including Nigeria.
While acknowledging Nigeria’s significant progress in combating the initial COVID-19 strain, Idem emphasised the need for vigilance and proactive measures in the face of emerging threats. He said, “The House is aware that the World Health Organisation has recently issued a global alert regarding a new COVID-19 variant, XEC, which exhibits similar symptoms to earlier strains.
“The XEC variant, a hybrid strain of the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron, has been detected in several countries, including those with high vaccination rates. As of 24th September 2024, WHO designated XEC as a variant under monitoring, with initial experimental data suggesting increased infectiousness and immune evasion.”
The House expressed concern over the spread of the XEC variant, which was first detected in May 2024 and has since spread across 43 countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, France, Germany, and Denmark, infecting over 600 people. The variant’s potential to spread further during the winter season was noted as a significant risk.
The emergence of XEC in Africa, particularly its detection in Botswana involving a hospitalised European traveller, heightens concerns about its potential spread across the continent. Limited testing and sequencing capabilities in Africa pose a challenge in determining the extent of its spread, leaving Nigeria vulnerable to a possible outbreak.
Idem also highlighted the urgency created by the festive season, with its high influx of travellers, stressing the need for Nigeria to act proactively to protect its citizens.
Following the adoption of the motion, the House urged the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare to intensify surveillance at international borders and ports of entry. This includes deploying thermal scanners, infrared thermometers, and personnel to conduct temperature screening and quarantine services for all inbound passengers.
Additionally, the House urged the Ministry and the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control to sensitise the public on the XEC variant and activate heightened alert systems to monitor and report suspected cases to the appropriate authorities.
