JUST IN: Cross River confirms COVID-19 case, activates emergency response

The Cross River State Government has confirmed a case of COVID-19 and activated emergency response measures to contain any potential spread. Commissioner for Health, Dr. Henry Egbe Ayuk, disclosed this on Tuesday in Calabar, assuring residents that the situation is under control and does not warrant panic.

He said the confirmed case involves a 53-year-old Chinese expatriate who arrived in Nigeria via Lagos on March 17, 2026, and later proceeded to a factory in Akamkpa Local Government Area, where symptoms were first detected. 

According to Ayuk, the patient initially presented mild symptoms and was referred to the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH), where samples were collected and the infection confirmed. “The patient is currently receiving care at the state’s designated isolation and treatment centre and is responding well to treatment,” he said.

The commissioner explained that the government delayed public announcement until diagnostic protocols were completed to avoid misinformation, stressing that the state remains vigilant in disease surveillance. “We have activated all necessary procedures, including contact tracing and isolation, to prevent further spread,” he added.

State Epidemiologist, Dr. Inyang Ekpenyong, said the case is the first officially recorded in Cross River since 2022, noting that even a single confirmed infection qualifies as an outbreak. “With even one case, we activated the Emergency Operations Centre. Rapid response teams have been deployed, and contact tracing is ongoing,” she said.

Ekpenyong added that identified contacts are being monitored daily within the virus’ incubation period of two to 14 days. She noted that many COVID-19 cases may go undetected due to mild symptoms or similarities with malaria, including fever, cough, and sore throat.

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health, Dr. Jonah Offor, commended the coordinated efforts between the state government and partners, including the World Health Organization and the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control. Also speaking, WHO State Coordinator, Dr. Olatunde Rebecca, stressed the need for sustained surveillance and warned against misinformation, describing it as a major risk during outbreaks.

She said COVID-19 spreads through respiratory droplets and contaminated surfaces, urging residents to maintain preventive measures such as hand hygiene, use of face masks where necessary, and physical distancing. 

Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, Dr. Ekpo Ekpo Bassey, said the state has strengthened its outbreak response capacity, enabling early detection and swift intervention. Health authorities urged residents to remain calm, adhere to safety guidelines, and promptly report symptoms to health facilities.