The Nigerian House of Representatives has urged the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, along with relevant government agencies, to strengthen surveillance measures at international borders and entry points across the country. This comes in response to the recent announcement by the World Health Organization (WHO) of a new COVID-19 variant, identified as XEC.
During a plenary session on Tuesday, the House adopted a motion of urgent public importance sponsored by Uyime Idem (PDP, Akwa Ibom). The motion called for immediate provision of thermal scanning machines, infrared thermometers, and personnel to conduct temperature screening and quarantine services for all inbound passengers.
The lawmakers emphasized the need for the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, in collaboration with the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), to launch public awareness campaigns on the XEC variant. The House also recommended activating heightened alert systems to monitor and report suspected cases promptly.
Highlighting the urgency of the matter, Idem noted the severe impact of the previous COVID-19 pandemic on global health and economies, including Nigeria’s. He stressed that while the country had made notable progress in combating earlier strains of the virus, continued vigilance and proactive measures were crucial to addressing emerging threats.
The WHO’s recent alert on the XEC variant, which exhibits symptoms similar to earlier strains, underscores the importance of maintaining robust preventive measures, the lawmaker added.
The House reiterated its commitment to ensuring that Nigeria remains prepared and responsive to any potential outbreaks, safeguarding public health and the nation’s economic stability.
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