The Cross River State Government says it has identified and placed under observation 10 individuals who had contact with a foreign national linked to a recent COVID-19 case in the state.
The state epidemiologist, Dr. Inyang Ekpenyong, said the individuals were discovered during ongoing contact tracing efforts.
According to her, health officials visited the patient’s workplace in Akamkpa Local Government Area as part of containment measures.
“We’ve restricted their movements to their homes, so that they do not spread the symptoms to other persons,” she said.
Ekpenyong added that the affected Chinese national is currently receiving treatment at the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital and is showing signs of recovery.
“As for the Chinese national, he is responding to treatment,” she disclosed.
She also reminded residents that COVID-19 has not been eradicated globally, urging continued adherence to preventive measures such as regular hand sanitising, use of face masks, and compliance with health guidelines.
Earlier, the state commissioner for health, Dr. Henry Egbe Ayuk, confirmed the case and reassured the public that necessary protocols had been activated to curb any possible spread.
“COVID-19 is not peculiar to Nigeria. But we’re determined to contain it. There’s no cause for alarm,” he said.
Ayuk further warned that the ease of global travel means infections can still be imported, stressing the importance of vigilance despite the reduced global attention to the virus.
The individual arrived in Nigeria via Lagos on 17 March 2026 before travelling to Calabar en route to a factory located in Akamkpa Local Government Area. Symptoms were reportedly first detected at a local clinic, prompting an immediate referral to UCTH
