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The [Kano State Centre for Disease Control (KNCDC)](https://kncdc.gov.ng) organised a simulation drill on Sunday to demonstrate how the state would react if an Ebola case were identified, covering detection at entry points, patient transport to a treatment facility and community hygiene measures. The exercise showed that health personnel are familiar with protocols and that the government is prepared to contain any suspected infection.
**What was the purpose of the drill?**
The simulation was designed as a practical rehearsal, allowing health workers to practice the steps they would take from the moment a suspected case is spotted at the airport or a state border until the patient reaches the Yar Gaya Isolation Centre. Prof. Muhammad Abbas, Director‑General of KNCDC, explained, “We have conducted what is known as a simulation exercise, which is a practical rehearsal of how we would respond if such an incident occurred.”
**How was the patient transfer scenario staged?**
Participants acted out the full chain of custody: identification of a possible Ebola patient, safe packaging, and escorted movement to the Yar Gaya Isolation Centre, a dedicated isolation facility in Kano. The drill highlighted potential confusion among staff unfamiliar with the procedures, which is why regular training is deemed essential.
**Which agencies informed Kano’s preparations?**
The state began its preventive actions after receiving alerts from the [Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC)](https://ncdc.gov.ng). Both agencies have been coordinating to ensure that surveillance at airports, bus stations, major highways and border crossings is heightened.
**What hygiene advice was given to the public?**
Prof. Abbas urged residents to wash their hands frequently with running water and soap, echoing practices from the COVID‑19 pandemic. He warned against using shared containers of water, noting that “if someone washes their hands in a container of water, and the disease‑causing germs are present, they may remain in the water and infect another person who uses it.” Where running water is unavailable, he recommended the use of hand sanitiser.
**Who is overseeing the state’s response?**
Governor [Abba Yusuf](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abba_Yusuf) has directed the health ministry to treat the Ebola threat seriously, ensuring that facilities and response systems are ready. The state Commissioner for Health, Dr Labaran Yusuf, added that health workers have already received training to manage suspected Ebola cases and other public‑health emergencies, rather than waiting for an outbreak to occur.
**What are the next steps for Kano’s health system?**
Authorities will continue to monitor entry points, keep surveillance teams active, and maintain public awareness campaigns on hand hygiene. Both KNCDC and the state health ministry affirmed that they are prepared to activate response mechanisms immediately should a suspected case be confirmed, while hoping the disease does not spread within Kano.