The federal government is looking into a troubling, flesh-eating disease that has resulted in seven deaths in Malabo, Adamawa State and has collected samples for testing to figure out what’s causing this illness.
Acting National Coordinator, National Tuberculosis, Buruli Ulcer and Leprosy Control Programme, Dr. Adesigbin Olufemi, disclosed this information to reporters on Saturday.
According to him, as of September 10, there have been 67 reported cases, and eight patients are currently undergoing surgery at the Modibbo Adama University Teaching Hospital in Yola.
The disease is believed to be Buruli Ulcer, which is a neglected tropical illness caused by bacteria often found in wet, marshy areas.
It usually starts like a boil, bursts open, and then eats away at the skin and can even damage bones.
While the exact way the disease spreads isn’t known yet, there are suspicions that insects, like mosquitoes, could be involved.
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Olufemi noted that the Adamawa State government is taking steps to address the outbreak, and since September 14, the federal government and other organizations have been helping the affected communities.
He emphasized the importance of educating people about the disease, as some locals initially thought it might be caused by witchcraft.
To protect health, a coordinated effort is needed, which includes providing clean water and better sanitation.
The government and its partners are committed to treating those affected and preventing further spread of the disease.
Treatment options include antibiotics and surgery.
The World Health Organization (WHO) identifies Buruli Ulcer as one of the most overlooked tropical diseases in the world.
