The Cross River state government says it has identified and isolated 10 individuals who had contact with a Chinese national infected with COVID-19.
The state had earlier announced that it recorded a new case of the virus. Henry Ayuk, the commissioner for health, explained that 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 showed symptoms.
Speaking on the development, Inyang Ekpenyong, the state epidemiologist, said health authorities immediately initiated contact tracing after confirming the case.
“We were able to identify 10 contacts of the patient. We have isolated them and are closely monitoring them. None of them have come down with symptoms,” Ekpenyong said.
She added that the patient is stable and responding to treatment.
Also speaking, Jide Idris, director-general of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), said response measures were swiftly activated in collaboration with the state government 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,” he said.
“All identified contacts are being followed up appropriately, and there is no evidence at this time of widespread transmission.”
He noted that the detection highlights the effectiveness of existing surveillance systems and urged the public to remain cautious and adhere to basic health guidelines.