The Zamfara State Government has intensified surveillance against Ebola Virus Disease (EVD), deploying medical personnel to Gusau International Airport and major motor parks to screen travellers and strengthen early detection.
The Commissioner for Health, Dr Nafisa Muhammad Maradun, disclosed the measures during the flag-off of the state’s response team at the airport. She said the initiative followed the identification of a passenger returning from Saudi Arabia through EgyptAir who presented with an elevated body temperature.
According to the commissioner, the passenger, an indigene of Zamfara, was identified during screening, prompting health authorities to strengthen monitoring at the state’s entry points.
The government has also intensified passenger screening at motor parks and other locations where travellers enter the state. Public awareness campaigns are expected to help residents recognise possible symptoms and report health concerns promptly.
The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Zamfara State chapter, is also collaborating with the state Ministry of Health and other stakeholders to strengthen preparedness. Its state chairman, Dr Muhammad Murtala, said an incident action plan had been developed to support public awareness and surveillance.
The measures follow reports of Ebola concerns in Nigeria in October 2026.
The state’s response is intended to improve early detection and reduce the risk of transmission. However, an elevated body temperature alone does not confirm Ebola infection, and the passenger’s health status should not be described as confirmed Ebola without laboratory evidence.
Health authorities have urged residents to remain calm, cooperate with screening teams and rely on verified public health information.
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