The Zamfara State Government has confirmed dengue fever as the cause of an outbreak that has claimed 46 lives, with 366 suspected cases recorded across Shinkafi, Moriki and neighbouring communities.
The state government said laboratory investigations confirmed 30 of the suspected cases as dengue fever following Polymerase Chain Reaction tests conducted at the Molecular Laboratory of Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital, Sokoto.
The Director of Public Health at the Zamfara State Ministry of Health, Dr Yusuf Haske, disclosed this during the second phase of an investigative visit to affected communities in Shinkafi Local Government Area.
According to the figures released, Shinkafi recorded 123 suspected cases and 38 deaths, while Zurmi reported 171 cases and eight deaths. Birnin Magaji also recorded 72 suspected cases.
The outbreak prompted Governor Dauda Lawal to direct the Ministry of Health to investigate the situation, particularly in Shinkafi, Moriki and Zurmi, where rising infections and fatalities have heightened concerns.
As part of efforts to contain the outbreak, the state response team is prioritising patient treatment, mosquito control, active case detection and public awareness campaigns. Arrangements are also being made to refer patients who develop complications to appropriate health facilities.
During the visit, the team first met with health officials at the Shinkafi Local Government Secretariat to assess the situation and review ongoing response measures.
At the Emir’s Palace, the officials formally announced dengue fever as the cause of the outbreak and distributed essential drugs and medical consumables to strengthen treatment efforts in affected communities.
The team also visited Shinkafi General Hospital, where some of the affected patients are receiving treatment. The hospital’s Medical Director, Dr Aminu Garba, briefed the delegation on the severity of the outbreak and measures being taken to manage patients.
Meanwhile, residents have been advised to maintain clean surroundings, eliminate stagnant water and clear potential mosquito breeding sites as part of efforts to prevent further transmission.
The state government says it will continue working with relevant health authorities and affected communities to contain the outbreak and prevent additional deaths.
