COVID-19: NCDC confirms single case in Cross River, assures no outbreak risk

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has confirmed a single case of COVID-19 in Cross River State, assuring Nigerians that there is no evidence of community transmission or widespread outbreak.

In a statement on Wednesday, NCDC Director-General, Dr Jide Idris, said the patient has been isolated and is currently receiving treatment in line with national clinical guidelines. He added that the patient is in stable condition and responding positively to care.

According to the agency, the case remains the only confirmed infection in Cross River State so far. It stressed that early detection reflects the effectiveness of Nigeria’s disease surveillance system rather than a sign of a surge in infections.

Following the confirmation, health authorities in Cross River State, working with the NCDC and development partners, have activated response measures including contact tracing, enhanced surveillance, and infection prevention protocols. All identified contacts are being closely monitored.

The agency further reassured the public that there is currently no indication of community spread, urging citizens not to panic but to remain alert and follow basic health precautions.

NCDC advised Nigerians to maintain proper hand and respiratory hygiene, seek medical attention when feeling unwell, and rely strictly on verified public health updates.

It also commended the media and the public for supporting accurate information sharing, while stating that it will continue to monitor the situation and issue updates when necessary.