The Akwa Ibom State Government has activated heightened COVID-19 surveillance following the confirmation of a new outbreak in a neighbouring state.
The Commissioner for Health, Dr Ekem Emmanuel, made this known in a statement in Uyo on Monday, saying that Governor Umo Eno had directed the ministry to activate heightened surveillance across all entry points, health facilities, and communities to forestall any outbreak.
“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,” Emmanuel said.
Citizens are advised to observe preventive measures, including regular handwashing with soap and water or the use of alcohol-based sanitisers, wearing face masks in crowded or enclosed spaces, avoiding close contact with symptomatic individuals, refraining from handshakes and physical greetings, and seeking prompt 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 said the ministry would strengthen collaboration with the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and other relevant partners to ensure effective monitoring and coordinated response.
Emmanuel reassured residents that the government was committed to safeguarding public health and urged the public to rely only on verified information from the Ministry of Health, avoiding unverified reports that might cause unnecessary panic.
An enquiries desk has been set up at the ministry with designated help lines available to assist members of the public.
On April 21, the Commissioner for Health in Cross River State announced the first reported case of the outbreak, which involved a Chinese national.
