The Kebbi State Government has intensified surveillance and screening of travellers at the state’s international airport and designated land border entry points to prevent the possible importation and spread of Ebola Virus Disease (EVD).

The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health, Dr Zaki Abubakar, stated this in a statement in Birnin Kebbi on Sunday.

He said the ministry, through its Public Health Department, had strengthened disease surveillance and screening at Sir Ahmadu Bello International Airport, Birnin Kebbi, and designated land border entry points across the state.

According to him, arriving and departing passengers are being screened at designated gates at the airport to facilitate early detection of suspected cases and identify travellers exhibiting symptoms consistent with Ebola.

Mr Abubakar said similar measures had been introduced at three designated land border entry points at Bagudo, Dandi and Arewa Local Government Areas to strengthen border health surveillance and protect residents from potential public health threats.

He added that the state ministry of health also provided Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to general hospitals in the state to enhance their capacity to respond to suspected cases.

The permanent secretary explained that the measures were aimed at ensuring prompt identification of suspected cases, timely referral for medical assessment and the implementation of appropriate public health interventions to minimise the risk of transmission.

Mr Abubakar reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to protecting residents through proactive disease surveillance, strengthened border screening and collaboration with relevant health authorities and other stakeholders.

He urged residents and travellers to remain vigilant, cooperate with health officials and promptly report any suspected symptoms to the appropriate health authorities.

(NAN)