Lagos: The Akwa Ibom Government has heightened COVID-19 surveillance following the confirmation of a new outbreak in neighbouring Cross River. The Commissioner for Health, Dr Ekem Emmanuel, made this known in a statement in Uyo on Monday. Emmanuel stated that Gov. Umo Eno has directed the ministry to activate heightened surveillance across all entry points, health facilities, and communities to forestall any outbreak.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, disease surveillance officers and rapid response teams have been placed on red alert to promptly detect and manage any suspected cases. Residents are urged to remain vigilant and adhere strictly to public health guidelines. They are also advised to observe preventive measures, including regular handwashing with soap and water or the use of alcohol-based sanitizers, and wearing face masks in crowded or enclosed spaces. Additionally, citizens should avoid close contact with symptomatic individuals, refrain from handshakes and physical greetings, and seek promp
t medical attention if symptoms such as fever, cough, or difficulty in breathing occur.
The commissioner urged healthcare workers to maintain a high index of suspicion and adhere strictly to infection prevention and control protocols. He mentioned that the ministry would strengthen collaboration with the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) and other relevant partners to ensure effective monitoring and a coordinated response. Emmanuel reassured residents that the government is committed to safeguarding public health.
The commissioner emphasized the importance of relying only on verified information from the Ministry of Health and warned against spreading unverified reports that might cause unnecessary panic. He announced that an enquiries desk had been set up at the ministry with designated help lines available to assist members of the public. For assistance, individuals can contact the Director of Public Health, Dr. Bassey Akpan, at 08035321513, and the State Epidemiologist, Dr. Edet Eneh, at 08038722
244.
The News Agency of Nigeria also reported that on April 21, the Commissioner for Health in Cross River, Dr. Henry Ayuk, announced the first reported case of the outbreak, which involved a Chinese national.