Zamfara Health Ministry, Ministry Of Agriculture, WHO, Collaborate To Prevent Outbreak Of Anthrax In The State

By Aminu Abdullahi Gusau 

The Zamfara State Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture, Environment, and partners, have strengthened the one health approach to contain the incident of anthrax outbreak in the state.

Commissioner of Health Dr. Nafisa Muhammad Maradun announced this during a stakeholder meeting today at the Public Health Emergency Operations Center (EOC).

 Massive  sensitisation and Vaccination for anthrax has already started in Zamfara State, and we need to improve coverage and sensitization in the state,"Dr. Maradun said.

Dr. Yusuf Haske, Director of Public Health, emphasized the importance of engagement animals and livestock value chain stakeholders for early detection. So far, only two animal mortalities were recorded and no human case reported so far as reported by Dr. Usman Ismail Gusau, the Veterinary state Epidemiologist 

"Early identification and reporting of suspected cases is crucial to contain the outbreak, and we are working closely with community leaders and traditional healers to raise awareness and encourage prompt reporting," he said.

Dr. Raji, WHO State Coordinator, commended the state government's swift response. 

"The one health approach is essential for effectively addressing zoonotic diseases like anthrax," Dr. Raji said.

"WHO is committed to supporting the state government in the outbreak response activities, including surveillance, risk communication, Clinicians' sensitization , coordination amongst others" he pledged.

The International Rescue Committee (IRC) also pledged its unwavering support to control the outbreak. The IRC representative stated.

"The IRC is deeply concerned about the anthrax outbreak in Zamfara State and stands ready to assist the government and communities. We will leverage our expertise in public health, community engagement, and humanitarian assistance to support the provision of essential services and ensure the well-being of affected populations," he assured 

Dr. Kabir Husaini the State Veterinary Public Officer was appointed as incident manager. He assured the team for his commitment and dedication. The team have developed an incident action plan that will guide the response intervention across the  response pillars at all levels.

Which will prevent further livestock losses and prevent human disease.

The statement was signed and issued to newsmen in Gusau by Suleiman Isah, ANIPR, Information Officer Ministry Of Health.