Zamfara government activates Ebola surveillance after passenger arrives airport with 38°C fever

The Zamfara State Government has stepped up Ebola surveillance at Gusau airport and major motor parks after screening identified a passenger arriving from Saudi Arabia with a temperature of 38 degrees Celsius.

Commissioner for Health Nafisa Maradun disclosed this while leading a medical team to launch passenger screening at the airport. She said the passenger, a Zamfara indigene, was referred for further medical assessment. The report did not announce an Ebola diagnosis.

Medical personnel have been deployed to the airport, motor parks and other entry points to screen travellers and support early detection of suspected cases. Maradun said the measures followed the confirmation of an Ebola case in the Federal Capital Territory on October 20 and were intended to prevent its spread to Zamfara.

She urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with health officials. The Ministry of Health has also directed public and private healthcare facilities, disease surveillance officers and local government health authorities to strengthen preparedness, improve screening and promptly report suspected cases.

The government said it was working with agencies including the Nigeria Customs Service and Nigeria Immigration Service to reinforce surveillance at entry points. Transport workers are also expected to assist by identifying and reporting passengers who may need medical assessment.