KEY POINTS

• A Chinese national working in Cross River tested positive for COVID-19 and is currently stable.
• Ten contacts have been traced, isolated, and are being monitored, with no symptoms reported so far.
• Authorities say there is no widespread transmission, urging residents to stay cautious and follow health guidelines.

The Cross River State Government has confirmed that a 53-year-old Chinese national working with Lafarge Africa in Akamkpa Local Government Area is the state’s latest COVID-19 case.

According to the State Commissioner for Health, Henry Ayuk, the patient arrived in Nigeria on March 17 and later developed symptoms consistent with COVID-19. Health authorities quickly identified him as the index case and commenced necessary medical intervention.

Officials say the patient is currently in stable condition and responding well to treatment.

10 Contacts Identified and Isolated

Following the confirmation of the case, the state’s epidemiology team immediately activated contact tracing protocols.

Inyang Ekpenyong, the state epidemiologist, disclosed that 10 individuals who had direct contact with the infected patient have been identified. These individuals have been isolated and are currently under close monitoring.

She noted that none of the contacts have shown any symptoms so far, which authorities consider a positive sign in preventing further spread.

Health authorities have reassured residents that the situation is under control but advised continued caution.

The NCDC urged the public to adhere to basic preventive measures such as maintaining hygiene, observing safety protocols, and reporting symptoms early.

Officials added that the detection of the case highlights the effectiveness of Nigeria’s disease surveillance system in promptly identifying and managing public health threats.