By Editorial Team
The attention of the Cross River State Ministry of Health has been drawn to a publication titled “Cross River Identifies 10 More Persons With COVID Symptoms.” The report, as presented, is misleading and does not accurately reflect the current public health situation in the state.
For the avoidance of doubt, Cross River State currently has only one (1) confirmed case of COVID-19. As clearly communicated during the press briefing held in Calabar on April 21, 2026, there are no additional confirmed cases in the state as of today.
The ten (10) individuals referenced in the report are contacts of the confirmed case, identified through routine and proactive contact tracing. They are not confirmed cases, nor are they classified as suspected cases, as none of them is currently exhibiting symptoms suggestive of COVID-19.
For clarity:
- Contacts are individuals who have had close interaction with a confirmed case.
- Suspected cases are individuals showing symptoms consistent with COVID-19.
- Confirmed cases are individuals who have tested positive through laboratory diagnosis.
In line with established public health protocols, these contacts have been placed under home (house) isolation and are being monitored daily by health officials for any development of symptoms. This is a preventive measure and does not in any way indicate the presence of new infections.
It is, therefore, inaccurate and misleading to suggest that Cross River State has identified “10 more persons with COVID symptoms,” as reported. No such development has been recorded.
The Cross River State Government remains transparent and committed to promptly informing the public of any changes in the COVID-19 status. Citizens are advised to disregard misleading reports and rely only on verified updates from the Ministry of Health.
While we continue to urge residents to maintain basic preventive measures, there is no cause for panic.
Signed:
Dr Henry Egbe Ayuk
Commissioner for Health
Cross River State
23 April 2026.
