Cross River traced 10 contacts as new concerns about COVID-19 emerged

The Cross River State Government has identified and isolated 10 people who had contact with Chinese nationals linked to the recent re-emergence of COVID-19 in Nigeria.

State health authorities said the individuals were discovered through an intensive contact tracing exercise conducted shortly after the cases were confirmed.

Speaking to journalists, the State Epidemiologist, Inyang Ekmenyong, explained that the affected people had been immediately confined to prevent the potential spread of the virus.

According to him, health officials extended their investigations to the workplace of the infected person located in Akamkpa Local Government Area.

He said, “We restrict their movements at home, so that they do not spread their symptoms to others.”

Ekmenyong further provided an update on the condition of the index case, stating that the patient was receiving treatment at the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital.

He added, “Regarding the Chinese national, he is responding to treatment.”

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This epidemiologist took this opportunity to remind citizens that although cases are decreasing globally, COVID-19 has not been completely eradicated.

He appealed to the public to remain cautious by observing established safety measures such as regular hand sanitization, wearing masks, and adhering to medical guidelines.

Earlier, State Health Commissioner Henry Egbe Ayuk confirmed the development and assured residents that the situation was under control.

He noted that the state quickly activated its public health response system to contain a possible outbreak.

However, Ayuk reminded that the risk of cross-border transmission is still a global concern.

He said, “COVID-19 is not unique to Nigeria. But we are determined to contain it. There is no reason to worry.”

Authorities said surveillance has been increased across the state, particularly in areas linked to confirmed cases, while health teams continue to monitor isolated individuals.

These developments once again highlight the persistent threat of infectious diseases in an increasingly interconnected world, even years after the first global outbreak occurred.