Cross River Confirms COVID 19 Outbreak, Activates Emergency Protocols –
Cross River State Reports First COVID-19 Case, Assures Public of Control Measures
CALABAR, Nigeria — The Cross River State Government has confirmed its first case of COVID-19, prompting officials to reassure residents that the situation is under control and there is no immediate cause for concern.
The Commissioner for Health announced that the index case involves a 53-year-old Chinese expatriate employed by a company in the Akamkpa Local Government Area. The patient initially exhibited mild symptoms before being admitted to the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital, where testing confirmed the COVID-19 infection.
Currently, the patient is receiving treatment at a designated state isolation facility and is reported to be responding well.
To mitigate the potential spread of the virus, the State Epidemiologist has indicated that contact tracing measures have been implemented. Over 60 individuals who may have been in contact with the patient have been identified and are undergoing close monitoring during the incubation period.
Despite recent cases presenting with mild symptoms, health officials emphasize that COVID-19 remains a concern. Residents are advised to adhere to basic preventive measures, including practicing proper hand hygiene, wearing face masks when necessary, and promptly reporting any symptoms.
The World Health Organization is collaborating with local health authorities, providing technical assistance, testing materials, and enhancing surveillance efforts. The agency has urged the public to remain calm and to avoid misinformation as health authorities continue to investigate the specific strain involved in this case.
