The Akwa Ibom State Government has stepped up disease monitoring activities following reports of a fresh COVID-19 outbreak in a neighbouring state.
The Commissioner for Health, Dr Ekem Emmanuel, disclosed this in a statement issued in Uyo on Monday.
He said Governor Umo Eno had directed the Ministry of Health to intensify surveillance at all border entry points, health facilities, and within communities to prevent any possible spread into the state.
According to him, disease surveillance officers and rapid response teams have been placed on high alert to quickly identify and manage any suspected cases.
He urged residents to remain alert and strictly follow public health safety measures.
Emmanuel advised members of the public to maintain good hygiene by washing hands regularly with soap and water or using alcohol-based sanitiser, wearing face masks in crowded or enclosed environments, and avoiding physical contact such as handshakes.
He also encouraged people to seek immediate medical attention if symptoms such as fever, persistent cough, or difficulty in breathing are observed.
The commissioner called on health workers to maintain vigilance and comply fully with infection prevention and control guidelines.
He added that the ministry would continue working closely with the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and other partners to strengthen monitoring and coordinated response efforts.
Emmanuel reassured residents that the government remains committed to protecting public health and safety.
He further advised the public to rely only on verified information from official sources and avoid spreading rumours that could cause panic.
He noted that an enquiry desk has been established at the Ministry of Health, with dedicated phone lines available for public assistance: Director of Public Health, Dr Bassey Akpan – 08035321513 and State Epidemiologist, Dr Edet Eneh – 08038722244.
The development follows the recent confirmation of a COVID-19 case in a neighbouring state involving a foreign national.