Just In: Nigeria Confirms Fresh COVID-19 Case in Cross River, Activates Emergency Response

Nigeria Confirms Fresh COVID-19 Case in Cross River, Activates Emergency Response


Nigeria has recorded a fresh case of COVID-19 in Cross River State, prompting immediate public health response measures from state authorities.

The development was disclosed on Tuesday during a press briefing in Calabar by the Cross River State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Henry Ayuk.

According to him, the confirmed case involves a 53-year-old Chinese national working in Akamkpa Local Government Area. The individual reportedly arrived in Nigeria on March 17 and began showing symptoms weeks later.

Dr. Ayuk explained that the patient’s condition worsened while receiving initial care, leading to his transfer to the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH), where samples were taken and tested.

“Protocols were strictly followed, and it was subsequently confirmed that he had COVID-19,” the commissioner said, adding that the patient is currently responding well to treatment.

Government Urges Calm Amid Surveillance Efforts

The state government has urged residents not to panic, emphasizing its preparedness to handle infectious disease outbreaks.

Ayuk noted that health authorities have strengthened surveillance and response systems to ensure early detection and containment of any emerging health threats.

“There is no cause for alarm. We are fully prepared to manage and contain any outbreak,” he assured.

Contact Tracing Ongoing

Also speaking, the State Epidemiologist, Dr. Inyang Ekpenyong, confirmed that emergency response protocols have been activated, including contact tracing and monitoring of individuals who may have interacted with the patient.

She revealed that rapid response teams have been deployed to Akamkpa as part of containment efforts.

Ekpenyong also pointed out that the timeline of symptom development suggests the infection may not have been contracted during the patient’s travel.

“The incubation period is typically between two to 14 days. However, the patient developed symptoms well beyond that window, raising the possibility of local transmission,” she explained.

WHO Emphasises Continued Vigilance

The World Health Organisation (WHO) Coordinator in Cross River State, Dr. Yewande Olatunde, reiterated that COVID-19 remains a global health concern.

She urged the public to maintain preventive measures, including hygiene practices and early reporting of symptoms.

“We must continue to take precautions to protect ourselves, as the virus is still present,” she said.

Background

The last confirmed COVID-19 case in Cross River State was reported in 2022. Health officials say the current situation highlights the need for sustained vigilance despite reduced global attention on the pandemic.

Authorities have assured residents that all necessary steps are being taken to prevent a wider outbreak.

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