RismadarVoice Reporters, April 23, 2026
Cross River State has identified and isolated 10 individuals who had contact with a Chinese national confirmed to have reintroduced COVID-19 into the state, according to the state epidemiologist, Dr Inyang Ekpenyong.
Dr Ekpenyong confirmed on Wednesday that the contacts were traced to the patient’s workplace in Akamkpa LGA.
She said all 10 individuals have been placed under strict home isolation as part of containment measures aimed at preventing further spread of the virus.
The Chinese national is currently receiving treatment at the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital and is reportedly responding well to care, according to health authorities.
Dr Ekpenyong cautioned residents against complacency, stressing that COVID-19 has not been completely eradicated. She urged continued adherence to preventive measures, including regular hand washing, use of face masks in crowded spaces, and compliance with public health advisories.
State Commissioner for Health, Dr Henry Egbe Ayuk, who first announced the case on Monday, said all public health systems have been activated to contain any potential spread. He noted that while global mobility increases the risk of imported infections, the state remains fully prepared.
“There is no cause for alarm,” Dr Ayuk said, adding that surveillance, contact tracing, and isolation protocols are fully operational to ensure containment.
Health officials say monitoring efforts will continue over the coming days as authorities work to prevent any secondary transmission within the state and beyond.
Meanwhile, Nigeria remains under national surveillance for infectious disease control as health authorities reinforce preparedness measures across borders and points of entry.
