The Cross River State Government has dismissed reports claiming that 10 new COVID-19 symptomatic cases were recorded in the state, describing the information as misleading and inaccurate.

The clarification comes after a national newspaper report suggested that additional people showing COVID-19 symptoms had been identified, sparking concerns among residents about a possible resurgence of the virus.

In a statement issued on Thursday in Calabar, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Henry Ayuk, reaffirmed that the state currently has only one confirmed COVID-19 case.

He explained that the confirmed case involves a Chinese national working in the state, who is currently receiving treatment and responding well.

Dr. Ayuk further clarified that the individuals mentioned in the report are not new suspected cases but contacts traced from the confirmed patient as part of standard public health procedures.

According to him, the 10 individuals are not showing symptoms and do not meet the criteria for classification as suspected COVID-19 cases. He added that they are currently under home isolation and are being monitored daily by health officials as a precautionary measure.

The commissioner stressed that contact tracing and monitoring are routine steps used to prevent potential spread and should not be misinterpreted as evidence of new infections.

He urged residents to ignore misinformation and rely only on official updates from the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare.

Dr. Ayuk also reassured the public that the state government remains committed to transparency, early response, and effective disease control measures.

He encouraged citizens to stay calm, follow basic health guidelines, and support ongoing efforts to protect public health across the state.