The Federal Government, through the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, has called on health authorities to activate heightened alert systems following the detection of the XEC COVID-19 variant, which is rapidly spreading globally.

XEC, the latest variant in the evolving COVID-19 virus lineage, was first identified in Australia and has now been confirmed in 29 countries.

This directive was contained in a letter dated December 5, addressed to the Committee of Chief Medical Directors and Medical Directors by Dr. O.N. Anuma, Permanent Secretary and Head of the Teaching Hospital Division, and made available to PUNCH Online on Saturday.

The letter stated, “I am directed to inform you of a newly detected XEC COVID-19 variant which has been reported in Australia and has already spread to 29 countries globally.

“You may wish to know that this variant has shown a growth advantage over other circulating strains, raising concerns about its potential impact on public health.”Dr. Anuma emphasized the need for vigilance and immediate action. “Alert systems should be immediately activated throughout our hospitals for high index of suspicion in patients with COVID-like symptoms,” he stated.

The ministry’s directive also stressed the importance of collaboration and timely information-sharing among health institutions and stakeholders to mitigate the potential risks associated with the variant.

“We request your committee to collaborate with all relevant stakeholders to share critical data regarding this strain and implement enhanced monitoring protocols,” the letter read.

“Timely information sharing among relevant stakeholders, including the Federal Ministry of Health, will be vital for effective response strategies,” Anuma warned.

Medical professionals have been urged to enhance monitoring protocols and ensure a coordinated response to the emerging threat posed by the XEC variant.