Suspected buruli ulcer claims 8 lives in Adamawa

An affliction suspected to be buruli ulcer has claimed the life of eight people in Adamawa State.

The state government confirmed the casualty on Tuesday, indicating that the outbreak and deaths were recorded in Malabu, a community in Fufore Local Government Area.

The state Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Felix Tangwami, disclosed the development in Yola, saying the development is deeply concerning.

Disclosing that samples from the affected patients have already been collected and dispatched to the National Reference Laboratory for further testing and confirmation of the disease, Tangwami said while awaiting laboratory results, health officials have placed the community on close monitoring to prevent spread.

“Some of the surviving patients are currently receiving specialized medical attention at the Modibbo Adama University Teaching Hospital (MAUTH), Yola,” the commissioner said.

He assured that a medical team from his ministry is working round the clock to stabilize the condition of the patients.

He further assured Adamawa people that the state government is collaborating with the Federal Ministry of Health, the World Health Organization (WHO), and other development partners in taking proactive steps to contain the situation.

“Measures include immediate deployment of emergency response teams, awareness campaigns, and provision of medical supplies to the affected community,” he said.

The commissioner appealed for calm, but advised residents to practice good hygiene and promptly report any cases of unusual skin ulcers or swellings, and avoid patronizing traditional remedies that may worsen infections.

Suspected buruli ulcer claims 8 lives in Adamawa