The Adamawa State Government has confirmed the death of eight people following an outbreak of a suspected Buruli ulcer in the Malabu community, Fufore Local Government Area.
Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Hon. Felix Tangwami, disclosed the development in Yola, describing the incident as “deeply concerning.
According to Tangwami, samples from the affected patients have already been collected and dispatched to the National Reference Laboratory for further testing and confirmation of the disease.
While awaiting laboratory results, health officials have placed the community on close monitoring to prevent further spread.
“Some surviving patients receive specialised medical attention at the Modibbo Adama University Teaching Hospital (MAUTH), Yola. Our medical team is working around the clock to stabilise their condition,” the commissioner stated.
He further assured residents that the Adamawa State Government, in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Health, the World Health Organisation (WHO), and other development partners, is taking proactive steps to contain the situation.
Measures include immediately deploying emergency response teams, conducting awareness campaigns, and providing medical supplies to the affected community.
Tangwami appealed for calm, noting that while the deaths are tragic, there is no cause for panic.
He advised residents to practice good hygiene, promptly report any cases of unusual skin ulcers or swellings, and avoid patronising traditional remedies that may worsen infections.