COVID-19 Alert in Cross River as Chinese National Isolated at UCTH

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The Cross River State Government has confirmed the isolation of a Chinese national at the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital over a suspected case of COVID-19.

The State Commissioner for Health, Henry Egbe Ayuk, disclosed the development on Tuesday in Calabar, noting that the patient is currently under close medical supervision and receiving appropriate care.

According to Ayuk, the individual arrived in Nigeria through Lagos on March 17, 2026, before traveling to Calabar en route to a factory in Akamkpa Local Government Area. Symptoms were first noticed at a local clinic, prompting immediate referral to UCTH, where isolation protocols were activated.

He stated that the government swiftly initiated its emergency public health response, including contact tracing and monitoring, in collaboration with the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control.

“We have activated all necessary procedures, including contact tracing and isolation, to prevent further spread,” Ayuk said, assuring residents that the situation remains under control.

Also confirming the incident, World Health Organization officials in the state, alongside the State Epidemiologist, Inyang Ekpenyong, said surveillance and response measures have been intensified.

Health authorities reiterated that COVID-19, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, may present symptoms ranging from mild to severe, including fever, cough, fatigue, and breathing difficulties. Residents were advised to maintain preventive measures such as proper hand hygiene, vaccination, use of face masks when necessary, and avoiding close contact with suspected cases.

Officials emphasized that early detection and prompt isolation remain crucial in preventing any potential outbreak.