The House of Representatives has called on the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare to implement robust preventive measures to guard against the outbreak of XEC, a new variant of the coronavirus.
The resolution was passed during Tuesday’s plenary, presided over by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, following the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance.
The motion was sponsored by Mr. Unyime Idem, representing Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency of Akwa Ibom State.
Presenting the motion, Idem highlighted the devastating impact of the initial COVID-19 pandemic on public health and economies worldwide, including Nigeria.
He noted the nation’s progress in tackling earlier strains but stressed the need for continued vigilance.
“The World Health Organisation has issued a global alert about the XEC variant, a hybrid strain of the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant, which exhibits similar symptoms to earlier strains,” Idem stated.
“This variant, detected in over 43 countries, including nations with high vaccination rates, has shown increased infectiousness and immune evasion.”
He further revealed that the XEC variant, first identified in May 2024, has infected more than 600 people worldwide and poses a significant threat, particularly during the winter season when respiratory illnesses typically surge.
Idem expressed concern over its presence in Africa, particularly a case detected in Botswana involving a hospitalized European traveler.
“With limited testing and sequencing capabilities across the continent, Nigeria remains vulnerable to the spread of this variant,” he warned.
The lawmaker also highlighted the potential risks associated with the upcoming festive season, which often sees a significant increase in international travel. “We must act now to safeguard our citizens from this emerging threat,” he urged.
The House, in its resolution, tasked the Federal Ministry of Health to bolster surveillance at international borders and ports of entry by deploying thermal scanners, infrared thermometers, and trained personnel for temperature screening and quarantine services.
Additionally, the Ministry, in collaboration with the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), was urged to launch public awareness campaigns about the XEC variant and activate systems to monitor and report suspected cases promptly.
“We cannot afford to be complacent,” Idem concluded. “Proactive measures are critical to preventing another public health crisis.”
