The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has issued a public advisory to address growing concerns about the SARS-CoV-2 XEC subvariant, a descendant of the Omicron lineage, which has been detected globally but not yet in Nigeria. The advisory aims to dispel public fears while reinforcing preventive measures and the country’s preparedness for any potential surge in COVID-19 cases.
The XEC subvariant is classified as a Variant Under Monitoring (VUM) due to its higher transmissibility compared to other variants. However, it has not shown increased severity, according to the NCDC. The subvariant has been reported in 43 countries across Europe, Asia, North America, and recently in Botswana, Africa. In Nigeria, its parent lineage, JN.1, has been under observation since January 2024.
The NCDC emphasizes that the subvariant is being closely monitored by the National COVID-19 Technical Working Group (COVID-19 TWG) to analyze international and local data for timely interventions.
As part of Nigeria’s emergency preparedness strategy, the NCDC continues to enhance its surveillance, detection, and response capabilities. Efforts include stockpiling resources, conducting readiness assessments, and improving laboratory testing and genomic sequencing capabilities.
“All suspected cases of COVID-19 should be tested, and positive samples sent for sequencing to accredited laboratories,” the advisory states.
The NCDC advises citizens to remain calm, avoid unnecessary panic, and adhere to preventive measures, including maintaining good personal hygiene by washing hands regularly, wearing masks in crowded or high-risk settings, especially if symptomatic, practicing physical distancing and keeping indoor spaces ventilated, staying vigilant for symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, and fatigue, getting tested for respiratory symptoms, and ensuring full vaccination with booster doses.
Special attention is urged for vulnerable groups, including the elderly, individuals with chronic illnesses, and those with compromised immune systems.
Healthcare workers are encouraged to test patients with respiratory or febrile symptoms and promptly send samples for genomic sequencing, maintain hand hygiene, use personal protective equipment (PPE), and follow infection prevention protocols.
The NCDC highlights the critical role of state governments in strengthening public health infrastructure. This includes supporting laboratories, ensuring healthcare facilities are well-resourced, and conducting public health campaigns to educate communities on early medical intervention and preventive practices.
The NCDC remains committed to keeping Nigerians informed and protected against emerging COVID-19 threats. For updates, citizens are advised to follow official channels and avoid misinformation.
For more information, citizens can reach the NCDC via toll-free Number 6232, SMS: 08099555577, WhatsApp: 07087110839, Social Media: @NCDCgov (Twitter, Facebook, Instagram), Email: info@ncdc.gov.ng, and Website: www.ncdc.gov.ng.
The NCDC assures the public that it is prepared to respond swiftly to any developments regarding the XEC subvariant or other public health threats, ensuring the health and safety of Nigerians.