The Federal Government has commenced laboratory investigations to uncover the actual cause of a strange flesh-eating disease that has killed seven people in Malabu village of Adamawa State.
Dr. Adesigbin Olufemi, Acting National Coordinator of the National Tuberculosis, Buruli Ulcer and Leprosy Control Programme, revealed this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday in Abuja.
He stated that as at Sept. 10, there were 67 confirmed cases, with eight patients undergoing surgical treatment at the Modibbo Adama University Teaching Hospital (MAUTH), Yola, under the government’s support.
It was gathered that the disease typically starts as a boil, later bursts, and then gradually destroys flesh, sometimes extending to the bones.
While stressing that the exact cause remains unconfirmed, Olufemi noted that Buruli Ulcer is strongly suspected.
“This tropical disease is still under investigation for confirmation,” he explained.
Buruli Ulcer, caused by Mycobacterium ulcerans, thrives in swampy and stagnant water environments. Although its mode of transmission is not fully understood, scientists believe insects such as mosquitoes or water fleas could play a role.
Olufemi commended the proactive response of the Adamawa State Government, with federal agencies and health partner REDAID arriving on-site on Sept. 14.
He said mild cases were being treated in local health centres, while severe cases had been referred for surgery in specialised hospitals.
He also pointed out that early treatment is critical, adding that community sensitisation has become necessary since some residents initially attributed the illness to witchcraft, delaying medical intervention.
“One of the most important things we are doing is to continue creating awareness,” he said.
Malabu, the epicentre of the outbreak, is a remote community located about two hours from Yola, with poor road access that complicates emergency response.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) lists Buruli Ulcer among the world’s most neglected tropical diseases, mainly affecting rural, riverine communities with limited healthcare access.
