By By Elizabeth Ugbo
Cross River State has confirmed a fresh COVID-19 case involving a 53-year-old Chinese national working in Akamkpa, who arrived Nigeria on March 17, developed symptoms on April 10, was diagnosed in Calabar, and is currently receiving treatment at the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital.
How the Case Was Detected
The State Commissioner for Health, Henry Ayuk, announced the case during a press briefing in Calabar. He explained that the patient first received care at a ministry facility. However, doctors later transferred him to the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital for proper evaluation.
At the hospital, medical teams collected samples and followed all COVID-19 protocols. Tests confirmed the infection.
Despite initial concerns, Ayuk stated that the patient is stable and responding to treatment.
Contact Tracing and Emergency Response
The State Epidemiologist, Inyang Ekpenyong, confirmed that authorities activated the emergency response unit immediately.
Health officials have already begun contact tracing. They are also compiling a line list of all individuals who had close contact with the patient.
Additionally, rapid response teams have deployed to Akamkpa, where the patient works. These teams aim to contain any possible spread.
Ekpenyong clarified that while the virus cannot be eliminated entirely, outbreaks can be controlled effectively.
Incubation Period Raises Questions
Ekpenyong highlighted a key concern regarding the infection timeline.
She noted that COVID-19 typically has an incubation period of two to 14 days. However, the patient developed symptoms weeks after arriving in Nigeria.
This gap suggests the infection likely occurred within Nigeria rather than abroad.
World Health Organization Urges Continued Vigilance
The WHO Coordinator in Cross River, Yewande Olatunde, stressed that COVID-19 remains present.
She urged residents to maintain preventive measures and remain cautious.
Olatunde also reassured the public that health authorities followed all protocols before confirming the case.
She emphasized that surveillance systems in the state remain strong and capable of managing outbreaks.
Government Reassures Residents
Ayuk reassured residents that there is no need for panic.
He explained that the state has strengthened its health systems to manage infectious diseases effectively.
He also acknowledged that silent infections can occur occasionally. However, he insisted that early detection and response will prevent escalation.
