Cross River State government said that it has identified and placed ten people under isolation after they came into contact with a Chinese national confirmed to have reimported COVID‑19 into Nigeria.
Dr Inyang Ekpenyong, the state epidemiologist, revealed that the contacts were traced through surveillance teams and have been placed under movement restrictions to prevent further transmission, reports Daily Independent.
“We’ve restricted their movements to their homes, so that they do not spread the symptoms to other persons,” she explained, adding that health officials are closely monitoring their condition.
The expatriate’s workplace in Akamkpa has also been visited by surveillance teams to assess potential exposure.
The patient, a 53‑year‑old Chinese national, is currently receiving treatment at the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH), where authorities report he is responding positively.
Dr Ekpenyong reminded residents that COVID‑19, though first emerging six years ago, has not been eradicated. She urged the public to continue practising preventive measures, including regular hand sanitisation, wearing face masks where necessary, and adhering to public health guidelines.
Confirming the case, Dr Henry Egbe Ayuk, State Commissioner for Health said the patient arrived in Nigeria on March 17 and later developed symptoms while in Akamkpa. His condition worsened at a state facility before being transferred to UCTH for advanced care.
“At the facility, samples were taken in line with established protocols, and it was confirmed that the patient showed symptoms of COVID‑19. We are, however, happy to report that he is doing well,” Ayuk stated.
The commissioner emphasised that Cross River’s health system has been reinforced to respond effectively to outbreaks, with surveillance mechanisms fully operational across the state.
He admitted the presence of occasional silent infections but assured residents that the government remains prepared to manage any public health threat.
“For every ailment, every disease or outbreak, if it is identified here in the state, there should be no alarm. The state will do well in terms of surveillance or containment of an outbreak. Whatever it is, we will do our best to contain it,” Ayuk said.
He further warned that COVID‑19 remains a global concern, with cross‑border movement of infected individuals continuing to pose risks.
“COVID‑19 is not peculiar to Nigeria. But we’re determined to contain it. There’s no cause for alarm,” Ayuk added.
