The Cross River State Government has dismissed reports alleging the emergence of 10 new COVID-19 symptomatic cases, describing the claim as misleading and inaccurate, while reaffirming that only one confirmed case currently exists in the state.
The clarification follows a report by a national daily which suggested that additional persons in the state had shown symptoms consistent with COVID-19, sparking public concern over a possible resurgence of infections.
The Commissioner for Health, Dr Henry Ayuk, had earlier confirmed a COVID-19 case involving a Chinese national working in the state. He noted that the patient is currently receiving treatment and responding well.
In a statement issued on Thursday in Calabar, Dr Ayuk restated that as of April 23, 2026, Cross River State had recorded only one confirmed COVID-19 case, with no new confirmed or suspected cases reported.
He explained that the 10 individuals referenced in the report were contacts traced from the single confirmed case as part of standard public health procedures aimed at preventing further spread.
According to him, the individuals are not symptomatic and do not meet the criteria for suspected COVID-19 cases. He added that they are currently under home isolation and are being monitored daily by health officials.
Dr Ayuk emphasised that the isolation measures are purely precautionary and should not be misinterpreted as evidence of new infections. He reiterated that the state has not recorded any additional COVID-19 cases.
He urged members of the public to disregard misinformation and rely solely on official updates from the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare. He also reassured residents of the government’s commitment to transparency and timely communication of accurate health information.
The Commissioner further advised residents to remain calm, continue observing preventive health measures, and support ongoing efforts to safeguard public health and prevent the spread of infectious diseases across the state.
PUNCH