RESURGENCE OF COVID 19 IN CROSS RIVERS STATE

‎Health authorities in Cross River State have intensified surveillance and containment measures following the confirmation of a fresh COVID-19 case, raising concerns over a possible resurgence of the virus in the state after years of low activity.

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‎The Cross River State Government confirmed that the case involves a 53-year-old foreign national working in Akamkpa Local Government Area. Officials said the patient arrived in Nigeria in March, later developed symptoms, and was transferred to the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital, where laboratory tests confirmed COVID-19 infection. Authorities added that the patient is receiving treatment and is in stable condition.

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‎In response, the state government has activated its emergency response system, launched contact tracing operations, and deployed rapid response teams to Akamkpa to prevent further spread. Health officials said people who may have had close contact with the patient are being monitored in line with public health protocols.

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‎The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) also confirmed the case and said there is currently no evidence of widespread community transmission in Cross River State. The agency said surveillance, infection prevention, and containment measures were underway in collaboration with state authorities.

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‎Cross River Commissioner for Health, Dr. Henry Ayuk, urged residents to remain calm, stressing that the situation is under control and that the state’s health system is prepared to manage any outbreak. He also warned against misinformation after reports emerged claiming multiple new cases, clarifying that only one confirmed case had been recorded so far.

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‎The fresh case has renewed public attention on COVID-19, which caused widespread disruption across Nigeria during the global pandemic. While infection rates had fallen significantly in recent years, health experts say the virus has not been eradicated and can still reappear through isolated imported or local cases.

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‎Medical experts are advising residents to maintain basic precautions such as regular handwashing, staying home when sick, and seeking medical attention if respiratory symptoms develop. Vulnerable groups, including the elderly and those with underlying health conditions, are being urged to remain especially cautious.

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‎The latest development serves as a reminder that although the emergency phase of the pandemic has passed, COVID-19 remains a public health concern requiring continued vigilance and rapid response.