Zamfara Epidemiologist Denies Ebola Outbreak Claims

Dr Ahmad Muhammad Gusau, the Zamfara State Epidemiologist, has refuted reports of an Ebola outbreak in Shinkafi Local Government Area, where approximately 30 deaths are currently under investigation. He stated that laboratory tests are being conducted to identify the cause of a strange illness presenting with malaria-like symptoms.

Gusau emphasized that the deaths could not be directly linked to the illness, as many deceased individuals had underlying health conditions such as diabetes and hypertension. A rapid response team from the Zamfara State Ministry of Health was deployed to Shinkafi to assess the situation at the general hospital.

Gusau also clarified that claims of patients lying on hospital floors due to overcrowding were false, as the medical director reported available bed spaces. No patients with bleeding, a key symptom of Ebola, have been reported.

Samples have been sent to the National Reference Laboratory to test for dengue fever, chikungunya, or other febrile diseases, with results expected soon. The Ministry of Health has provided medical supplies to support patient treatment.