The Cross River State Government has confirmed a fresh case of COVID-19 in the state, the first officially recorded since 2022.
The State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Henry Egbe Ayuk, announced the development on Tuesday in Calabar. He assured residents that the situation is under control and does not warrant panic.
According to the commissioner, the confirmed case involves a 53-year-old Chinese expatriate who arrived in Nigeria via Lagos on March 17, 2026, and later traveled to a factory in Akamkpa Local Government Area.
The patient developed mild symptoms and was referred to the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH), where samples were taken and tested positive for COVID-19.
The patient is currently receiving treatment at the state’s designated isolation and treatment center and is responding well.
What the Government Is Doing
Dr. Ayuk explained that the government delayed the public announcement until all diagnostic protocols were completed to avoid spreading misinformation.
He added that all necessary procedures, including contact tracing and isolation of identified contacts, have been activated to prevent further spread.
The State Epidemiologist, Dr. Inyang Ekpenyong, confirmed that this is the first recorded case in Cross River since 2022.
She noted that even a single confirmed infection is treated as an outbreak. Rapid response teams have been deployed, and all identified contacts are being monitored daily within the virus’s incubation period of 2 to 14 days.
Dr. Ekpenyong also warned that many COVID-19 cases may go undetected because their symptoms (fever, cough, sore throat) are similar to those of malaria, which is common in the region.
Advice to Residents
Health officials are urging residents to remain vigilant but calm.
They advise continued adherence to basic preventive measures such as regular hand washing, wearing masks in crowded places, and seeking medical attention when symptoms appear.
The Cross River State Government has reassured the public that it is working closely with relevant agencies to contain the situation and prevent community transmission.
This single confirmed case serves as a reminder that COVID-19 has not completely disappeared.
While the country has recorded far fewer cases in recent years, vigilance remains important, especially with increased international travel.