Panic as mystery disease eats flesh, kills seven in Adamawa

By Folasade Akpan

The Federal Government has launched an investigation into a mysterious flesh-eating disease that has killed seven people and infected dozens in Malabo, Adamawa State.

Dr. Adesigbin Olufemi, Acting National Coordinator of the National Tuberculosis, Buruli Ulcer and Leprosy Control Programme, confirmed in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Saturday that samples had been collected for laboratory analysis to establish the exact cause of the outbreak.

As of September 10, no fewer than 67 cases had been reported, with eight patients undergoing surgical treatment at the Modibbo Adama University Teaching Hospital, Yola.

According to Olufemi, the symptoms strongly suggest Buruli Ulcer, a neglected tropical disease caused by Mycobacterium ulcerans, typically found in swampy and marshy areas.

“The condition usually starts as a boil, then bursts open, and progressively eats away flesh, sometimes extending to the bone,” he explained.

“Though the precise cause and transmission route remain unclear, some studies suggest a possible link with insects, including mosquitoes.”

He praised the Adamawa State Government for its proactive response and confirmed that federal officials and development partners had been deployed to the affected communities since September 14 to contain the disease.

Olufemi also stressed that awareness campaigns remain crucial, as many residents initially attributed the disease to witchcraft.

“Health security requires a multisectoral approach that goes beyond hospitals. Access to safe water and proper sanitation is key to prevention. The government and partners are working to sustain treatment efforts, which combine antibiotics with surgery, and to stop further spread,” he said.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) classifies Buruli Ulcer as one of the world’s most neglected tropical diseases, with outbreaks often linked to poor living conditions and limited healthcare access.