To combat the anthrax outbreak in the state, the Zamfara State Ministry of Health has stepped up its one health strategy in coordination with the Ministries of Agriculture, Environment, and other important partners.
An anthrax outbreak on a farm in the state was verified earlier Tuesday by the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development, which also urged more surveillance and prompt action to limit the disease.
At a stakeholder meeting on Tuesday at the Public Health Emergency Operations Center, state Commissioner for Health Dr. Nafisa Maradun gave an update on the government’s initiatives.
She emphasized that aggressive steps are being taken to contain the outbreak, such as extensive vaccination and sensitization efforts.
“We need to improve coverage and sensitisation in the state,” Maradun said, highlighting the importance of robust public awareness and vaccination efforts.
In order to improve early identification and prompt reactions, Dr. Yusuf Haske, the Director of Health, also emphasized the importance of involving stakeholders in the cattle value chain.
“Engaging animals and livestock value stakeholders is crucial for early detection,” Haske said.
Dr. Usman Gusau, the State Veterinary Epidemiologist, provided additional updates, stating that there were few animal deaths.
“There have only been two documented animal deaths thus far, and no human cases have been reported,” he said.
“We are working closely with community leaders and traditional healers to raise awareness and encourage prompt reporting,” Gusau said, highlighting the need of early detection and reporting of suspected cases.
Dr. Mukhtar Raji, the World Health Organization Coordinator for Zamfara, praised the state government’s prompt action and said that combating zoonotic illnesses like anthrax requires a one-health approach.
“WHO is committed to supporting the state government in all aspects of the outbreak response, including surveillance, case management, risk communication, and community engagement,” Raji promised.
Additionally, he emphasized the significance of awareness-raising initiatives aimed at cow breeders.
Additionally, the International Rescue Committee has promised to assist in containing the outbreak.