Zamfara State Ministry of Health in Collaboration with World Health, Organization (WHO) has organized a one-day refresher training on meningitis outbreak response and sample collection for clinical officers across the state.
The objective of the training is to equip healthcare professionals with the necessary skills to effectively respond and manage potential meningitis crises across the state.
According to the spokesperson of the Ministry Sulaiman Isah clinical officers from various health facilities across all 14 local government areas (LGAs) of the state we’re selected for the training.
Representatives from the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) Gusau and Yariman Bakura Specialist Hospital were also selected for the training.
Dr. Ahmad Muhammad Gusau the State Epidemiologist represented the Commissioner of Health, Dr. Nafisa Muhammad Maradun, at the event.
He expressed appreciation to those selected for participation in the training and encouraged them to increase their of suspicions to signs and symptoms of meningitis and other vaccine-preventable diseases.
Dr. Ahmad also emphasized that the training was part of the state’s preparedness and response efforts to address health challenges, particularly the threat of meningitis outbreaks as recorded in neighboring States.
The training focused on enhancing the clinicians’ ability to respond effectively and accurately collect samples, including through the lumbar puncture procedures, crucial for timely diagnosis and intervention.
The refresher course underscores the Zamfara State government’s commitment to strengthening its healthcare system and protecting the health of its citizens.
WHO Surveillance and Disease Control Officer Commended the efforts of the State in ensuring Preparedness for the Meningitis seasons especially with confirmed cases already in neighboring States.
He also advised the participants to improve vigilance in their respective hospitals and prompt reporting while also reiterating WHO’s continued support to Acute flaccid paralysis (AFP) and Integrated Disease Surveillance and response (IDSR) Surveillance activities in the State.
