Senate Launches Probe Into COVID-19 Case In Cross River State

According to Ireporter Online, the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, has ordered a comprehensive investigation into reports of a fresh COVID-19 case in Cross River State, amid growing public concern over the development. The directive came at the end of plenary on Wednesday, following conflicting reports about the alleged resurgence of the virus in the state.

Akpabio, while addressing lawmakers, said he had been briefed on claims of a possible COVID-19 outbreak but stressed the need for proper verification before drawing conclusions. He subsequently mandated the Senate Committee on Health, chaired by Senator Ipalibo Harry Banigo, to urgently examine the situation and report back to the chamber.

The Senate President urged relevant health authorities to provide clear updates, noting the importance of transparency and preparedness in handling any potential public health threat. Lawmakers also expressed concern over surveillance systems, testing capacity, and the overall response framework should any spread be confirmed.

However, the Cross River State Government has dismissed reports alleging the existence of 10 new COVID-19 cases in the state, describing them as misleading and inconsistent with official health records. The Ministry of Health clarified that the state currently has only one confirmed COVID-19 case, who is receiving treatment at an isolation centre.

Health Commissioner, Dr. Henry Ayuk, confirmed that the patient, a Chinese national, is in stable condition and responding positively to treatment. He further explained that the individuals referenced in earlier reports were not new cases but contacts traced through routine monitoring procedures.

The ministry stressed that all identified contacts have been placed under home observation and are being closely monitored as a precautionary measure, noting that none has shown symptoms of the virus. It also reiterated the distinction between confirmed cases, suspected cases, and contacts under surveillance, urging the public to avoid misinformation.

Authorities assured residents that the situation remains under control and that public health systems are actively monitoring developments to prevent any possible spread.