No evidence of widespread COVID-19 transmission in Cross River – NCDC

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) says there is no evidence of widespread COVID-19 transmission in Cross River state.

The Cross River government had earlier announced that it had recorded a new case of COVID-19 in the state.

Henry Ayuk, the state commissioner for health, said the index case involves a 53-year-old Chinese national working with Lafarge in Akamkpa LGA, who arrived in Nigeria on March 17 and later developed symptoms.

Reacting to the development in a statement on Tuesday, Jide Idris, director-general of the NCDC, said the agency is aware of recent media reports regarding a confirmed case of COVID-19 in Cross River state, adding that the situation is under control.

According to him, the case is currently isolated and receiving care.

“This is the only confirmed case that has been isolated and is currently being managed in line with national treatment guidelines. The patient is in stable condition and responding to care,” the statement reads.

He noted that response measures were immediately activated after the case was confirmed, in collaboration with state authorities and partners.

“Following confirmation of the case, the Cross River State Ministry of Health, in coordination with NCDC and with support from partners, has activated response measures, including contact tracing, surveillance, and infection prevention & control,” the NCDC boss added.

“All identified contacts are being followed up appropriately, and there is no evidence at this time of widespread transmission.”

He said the detection of the case demonstrates that the agency’s surveillance systems remain active and advised members of the public to remain cautious and adhere to basic health measures.

Idris added that NCDC will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as necessary.