The reassurance follows speculation about alleged cases, including claims linked to the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH). Responding to media inquiries, the Commissioner for Health, Henry Egbe Ayuk, stated that investigations carried out by the Ministry of Health found no confirmed or epidemic cases of the disease.
Ayuk explained that cerebrospinal meningitis, typically caused by bacterial or viral infections, often thrives in crowded environments and primarily affects children. Common symptoms include high fever, body weakness and stiffness, and the condition can be fatal if not treated promptly.
According to the commissioner, the ministry acted swiftly after the reports emerged, conducting thorough investigations and laboratory testing. He said all samples collected from suspected or presumptive cases returned negative results, confirming that the state remains free of the disease.
He added that despite the absence of confirmed cases, the state has maintained a high level of preparedness to respond to any public health emergency. Disease surveillance teams have been placed on alert across health facilities and communities, with active case searches ongoing to ensure early detection and rapid response if needed.
Ayuk further disclosed that health promotion and sensitisation efforts have been intensified, targeting caregivers, healthcare workers and community members to improve awareness of meningitis symptoms and encourage early presentation at health facilities.
The commissioner urged residents to ignore rumours capable of causing unnecessary panic and advised the public to rely on verified information from health authorities. He also called on citizens to promptly report any unusual symptoms through appropriate channels.
He said the government’s response reflects its commitment to safeguarding public health through proactive surveillance, transparency and sustained investment in disease prevention and emergency preparedness.