Kehinde Fajobi
The House of Representatives has called on the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare to implement preventive measures against the XEC variant of the coronavirus.
The decision followed a plenary session on Tuesday, presided over by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, during which a motion of urgent public importance was presented by Mr. Unyime Idem, representing Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency in Akwa Ibom State.
Idem noted the devastating effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on global health and economies, including Nigeria, and stressed the need for vigilance against emerging threats.
He stated, “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 XEC variant’s spread across 43 countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, France, and Germany, infecting over 600 people.
The variant was first detected in May 2024 and poses a heightened risk during the winter season.
Its detection in Africa, particularly Botswana, where it was found in a hospitalised European traveller, raises fears of its spread across the continent.
Nigeria’s limited testing and sequencing capabilities were identified as vulnerabilities in addressing a potential outbreak.
Idem highlighted the urgency posed by the festive season, with increased travel activity, stressing the importance of proactive measures to safeguard Nigerians.
In its resolution, the House urged the Health Ministry to enhance surveillance at international borders and ports of entry by deploying thermal scanners, infrared thermometers, and quarantine personnel for inbound passengers.
It also called on the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) and the Health Ministry to educate the public about the XEC variant and activate systems to monitor and report suspected cases promptly.