The Zamfara State Government has stepped up Ebola surveillance at Gusau Airport and major motor parks after a passenger from Saudi Arabia registered a temperature of 38 degrees Celsius during screening. The traveller, a local resident, was identified by health officials and referred for further assessment to effectively respond to suspected cases.
Health Commissioner Nafisa Maradun announced the increased screening measures while leading a medical team at the airport. The government has deployed personnel to key locations to enhance early detection of potential infectious diseases.
This initiative follows Nigeria’s confirmation of an Ebola case in the Federal Capital Territory on 20 October, prompting the state to implement precautions to protect residents from the virus. Maradun urged the public to remain calm, cooperate with health officials, and support the government’s disease monitoring efforts.
Amid heightened health vigilance across the nation, the Zamfara State Ministry of Health has instructed healthcare facilities and local health authorities to strengthen their preparedness. This includes conducting vigilant checks for suspected cases, ensuring thorough screening, and promptly reporting individuals with symptoms or relevant exposure histories.
Additionally, the government is collaborating with agencies such as the Nigeria Customs Service and the Nigeria Immigration Service to improve coordination at entry points. Transport operators are also being asked to assist by identifying and reporting passengers who appear unwell.
The state government underscored that presenting a fever does not confirm an Ebola infection, and further medical evaluation is necessary to determine the cause of the elevated temperature.
