The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention has reassured Nigerians following the confirmation of a new COVID-19 case in Cross River State, stating that there is no indication of widespread transmission.
“All identified contacts are being followed up appropriately, and there is no evidence at this time of widespread transmission,” the agency said in a statement issued by its Director-General, Jide Idris.
The development comes after the Cross River State Government confirmed a fresh case, years after the World Health Organization declared the end of the global emergency phase of the virus.
According to the state’s Commissioner for Health, Henry Ayuk, the index case involves a Chinese national working in Akamkpa Local Government Area who arrived in Nigeria on March 17 and later developed symptoms.
The NCDC said the patient has been isolated and is receiving care in line with standard protocols.
“The patient is in stable condition and responding to care,” Idris said.
The agency added that it has activated response measures in collaboration with partners and the Cross River State Ministry of Health, including contact tracing, surveillance, and infection prevention and control.
“We continue to maintain routine surveillance for COVID-19 and other respiratory infections,” it stated.
Nigerians have been advised to observe basic hygiene practices such as regular handwashing, proper respiratory etiquette, and to seek medical attention when necessary.
The latest case comes years after the COVID-19 pandemic, first identified in 2019, disrupted economies and caused millions of deaths globally, including over 3,000 fatalities and more than 266,000 confirmed cases in Nigeria.
Health authorities, however, are urging calm, noting that the situation remains under control.
