Cross River Confirms COVID-19 Case

Authorities in Cross River State have confirmed a case of COVID-19, prompting the activation of emergency response protocols.

The state’s Commissioner for Health, Dr Henry Ayuk, announced the development at a news conference in Calabar on Tuesday. He said the case involves a 53-year-old Chinese national working in Akamkpa Local Government Area, who arrived in Nigeria on 17 March and later developed symptoms.

According to Dr Ayuk, the patient’s condition initially worsened while receiving care at a state facility before he was transferred to the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital, where samples were taken and the infection was confirmed.

“We are, however, happy to report that he is doing well,” he said.

Officials say established public health procedures were followed before confirming the case, adding that the state has strengthened its capacity to manage infectious disease outbreaks.

Dr Ayuk also noted that while sporadic infections may occur, residents should not panic, stressing that surveillance and containment systems are in place.

The State Epidemiologist, Dr Inyang Ekpenyong, said an emergency response unit had been activated, with contact tracing efforts underway to identify and monitor individuals who may have been exposed.

She explained that the patient began showing symptoms on 10 April, several weeks after his arrival, suggesting the possibility of local transmission.

“The incubation period is typically between two and 14 days. Given the timeline, there is a likelihood the infection may have been acquired within Nigeria,” she said.

Rapid response teams have been deployed to Akamkpa, and authorities are compiling a list of contacts as part of containment efforts.

Dr Ekpenyong added that while the virus cannot be entirely prevented, effective management can limit its spread and reduce fatalities.

The World Health Organization coordinator in Cross River, Dr Yewande Olatunde, urged the public to remain vigilant, noting that COVID-19 continues to circulate globally.

“We must continue to apply preventive measures to protect ourselves,” she said.

The last confirmed case of COVID-19 in Cross River was reported in 2022.

NAN