Nigerian Govt Launches Investigation Into Mysterious Flesh-Eating Disease in Adamawa

The Federal Government has launched laboratory investigations to identify the cause of a mysterious flesh-eating disease that has claimed seven lives in Malabu, a remote community in Adamawa State.

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.

As of September 10, a total of 67 cases had been confirmed, with eight patients undergoing surgical procedures at Modibbo Adama University Teaching Hospital (MAUTH) in Yola.

“These patients are receiving surgical treatment with government support,” Olufemi said, highlighting coordinated efforts to contain the outbreak.

The disease typically begins as a boil, which later ruptures and gradually destroys skin tissue, potentially affecting the bones.

While the exact cause remains unknown, health authorities suspect Buruli Ulcer, a rare tropical disease caused by the Mycobacterium ulcerans bacterium. This bacterium is commonly found in swampy areas and stagnant water bodies.

“Transmission methods are still unclear,” Olufemi noted. “Some research suggests insects like mosquitoes or water fleas may transmit the bacteria through bites.”

He praised the swift response from the Adamawa State Government, supported by federal health agencies and the NGO REDAID, which deployed a team to the area on September 14.

Patients with mild symptoms are being treated at local health centres, while more severe cases requiring surgery are referred to specialised facilities.

Olufemi also addressed misconceptions in the community, noting that some residents initially attributed the illness to witchcraft, causing delays in seeking medical attention.

“We’re working to raise awareness and encourage early treatment,” he said, stressing the importance of public sensitisation in managing the outbreak.

He added that Malabu’s remote location—around two hours from Yola with limited road access—posed challenges to rapid medical response.

Beyond medical treatment, Olufemi emphasised the need for long-term solutions such as access to clean water and better sanitation.

“If residents had access to pipe-borne or borehole water, they wouldn’t need to rely on potentially contaminated rivers,” he explained.

He assured the public that both federal and state governments, in collaboration with health partners, are committed to containing the outbreak and providing care for affected individuals.

The World Health Organization classifies Buruli Ulcer as one of the world’s most neglected tropical diseases, often affecting rural, riverine communities with limited healthcare access.