The Federal Government has launched laboratory investigations to identify the cause of a strange flesh-eating disease that has killed seven people in Malabu, Adamawa State.
Acting National Coordinator of the National Tuberculosis, Buruli Ulcer and Leprosy Control Programme, Adesigbin Olufemi, confirmed the development in Abuja on Sunday.
He said 67 cases had been recorded as of September 10, with eight patients currently undergoing surgical treatment at the Modibbo Adama University Teaching Hospital (MAUTH), Yola.
The illness, which begins as a boil before bursting and gradually eating away flesh—sometimes damaging bone—is suspected to be Buruli Ulcer, though tests are ongoing to confirm.
“Up till now, nobody is sure exactly how it is transmitted. Some theories suggest insects like water fleas or mosquitoes may inoculate individuals when they bite,” Olufemi explained.
He commended the swift response of the Adamawa State Government, federal agencies, and partner organisation REDAID, which joined the intervention on September 14. While mild cases are being managed in local health centres, severe patients have been referred to specialist hospitals.
Olufemi stressed the importance of public sensitisation, noting that misconceptions such as attributing the outbreak to witchcraft had delayed treatment for some residents.
He added that Malabu’s remote location and poor road access complicated emergency response, while urging investment in clean water and sanitation to prevent future outbreaks.
The World Health Organisation classifies Buruli Ulcer among the world’s most neglected tropical diseases, largely affecting rural, riverine communities with limited healthcare access.
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