The Zamfara State Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the Ministries of Agriculture, Environment, and key partners, has launched a comprehensive strategy to tackle the recent anthrax outbreak in the state.
This follows confirmation of the outbreak by the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development, which reported the presence of anthrax on a farm in Zamfara. Authorities are urging vigilance and swift containment measures to prevent further spread.
Addressing stakeholders during a meeting at the Public Health Emergency Operations Centre on Tuesday, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Nafisa Maradun, outlined the state government’s proactive approach. She emphasized the importance of massive public sensitization and vaccination campaigns to curb the outbreak.
“We need to improve coverage and intensify sensitization across the state,” Maradun said, stressing the need for community awareness and cooperation.
Dr. Yusuf Haske, the Director of Health, highlighted the importance of involving stakeholders in the livestock value chain to ensure early detection and rapid response. “Engaging stakeholders is crucial for early detection and effective intervention,” he noted.
Providing updates on the situation, the State Veterinary Epidemiologist, Dr. Usman Gusau, confirmed minimal losses so far. “Only two animal fatalities have been recorded, and there are no reported human cases,” Gusau stated.
The anthrax outbreak has heightened concerns over public health and livestock safety. Experts and authorities are working to mitigate risks by promoting vaccinations, enforcing biosecurity measures, and disseminating information to rural communities where livestock farming is prevalent.
The state government is urging farmers, herders, and livestock owners to report any suspected cases of anthrax immediately and participate actively in the vaccination drives to ensure the safety of animals and people.
The outbreak underscores the importance of the “One Health” approach, which integrates human, animal, and environmental health strategies to address public health challenges effectively.
Anthrax, a bacterial disease affecting both humans and animals, can spread through contact with infected animals or their products. While preventable through vaccination, it poses significant risks if not managed promptly.
Zamfara’s government, in partnership with federal agencies and international organizations, is determined to contain the outbreak and prevent further occurrences through sustained awareness, vaccination, and collaboration.