The Sokoto State Government has stepped up disease surveillance and emergency response measures against a possible spread of Ebola Virus Disease, even as the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention continues to classify the state as low-risk.

The assurance was given on Tuesday by the Commissioner for Health, Dr Faruk Umar Abubakar Wurno.

Wurno spoke after a stakeholders’ meeting held to review the state’s level of preparedness and strengthen systems for prevention and response. He said epidemiologists and disease surveillance officers have been placed on high alert, while emergency response mechanisms and designated health facilities have been prepared to handle any suspected cases.

The commissioner noted that Sokoto’s location and points of entry, particularly the Illela international border and the state airport, make continuous vigilance necessary. He emphasised that the state has an active surveillance system ready to respond quickly if any alert is raised.

On isolation arrangements, Wurno disclosed that the Infectious Disease Hospital in Amanawa has been prepared to accommodate suspected Ebola cases. The facility has been supplied with personal protective equipment and other essential resources for infection prevention and control.

He also reported progress in the management of diphtheria cases in the state, with fewer than 20 patients currently on admission across three treatment centres.

The commissioner urged residents to remain calm, rely on credible health information and promptly report any suspected cases to the appropriate authorities.