In a swift response to a confirmed anthrax outbreak on a farm in Zamfara State, the government, in collaboration with key partners, has launched an intensive campaign to contain the disease and prevent its spread. The Zamfara State Ministry of Health, working alongside the Ministries of Agriculture and Environment, has adopted a One Health approach that integrates human, animal, and environmental health efforts.

During a stakeholders’ meeting at the Public Health Emergency Operations Centre, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Nafisa Maradun, outlined the government’s proactive measures to address the outbreak. These include massive vaccination campaigns and public awareness drives aimed at educating communities about anthrax prevention and control. Dr. Maradun emphasized the importance of expanding sensitization efforts to reach rural areas and livestock-dependent populations.

The Director of Health, Dr. Yusuf Haske, underscored the critical role of engaging stakeholders within the livestock value chain to ensure early detection and effective responses. He noted that close collaboration with livestock owners, herders, and community leaders is essential for identifying cases promptly and implementing swift containment measures.

Providing an update on the situation, the State Veterinary Epidemiologist, Dr. Usman Gusau, reported minimal animal fatalities, and no human cases identified. He highlighted the importance of early reporting of suspected cases to prevent the disease from spreading further.

The World Health Organization (WHO) Coordinator for Zamfara, Dr. Mukhtar Raji, commended the state government’s swift action and its use of the One Health strategy to tackle the outbreak. He pledged the organization’s continued support in surveillance, case management, risk communication, and community engagement. The International Rescue Committee has also committed its support to strengthen the government’s efforts in controlling the outbreak.

To enhance coordination and response, the state has appointed Dr. Kabir Husaini as the Incident Manager. He has developed an incident action plan to guide interventions at all levels, ensuring that resources are effectively utilized to mitigate the impact of the outbreak.

Anthrax, caused by Bacillus anthracis, is a serious infectious disease that primarily affects livestock such as cattle, sheep, and goats. Humans can contract the disease through direct contact with infected animals or contaminated products. Vaccination and awareness campaigns are essential to controlling the spread of this zoonotic disease.

The Zamfara State government has urged livestock owners, community leaders, and the general public to participate actively in the vaccination drive and report any suspected cases promptly. This collaborative approach demonstrates the state’s commitment to protecting both animal and human health while reducing the risk of further outbreaks.