Adamawa Community Sounds Alarm Over Mysterious Illness
Residents of Malabo in Fufore Local Government Area of Adamawa State have expressed concern over the outbreak of a mysterious ailment affecting body parts and causing severe pain among those infected.
Several patients told newsmen on Friday that the disease often begins as a small boil, which later bursts and gradually eats away at flesh, sometimes damaging the underlying bones.
Mrs. Phibi Sabo, who has been battling the condition for weeks, said, “It started like a boil with pain, then got swollen and burst. It has now eaten into the flesh of my leg, affecting the bones and causing serious pain. I have sought treatment at the hospital, but the situation persists.” She appealed to the government for support, noting that many affected individuals can no longer carry out daily activities or provide for their families.
Another victim, Malam Junaidu Adamu, shared a similar experience. “About two months ago, after returning from the farm, I felt pains in my leg. It started like a boil, then spread until my flesh began decaying. I spend about N25,000 weekly on medications, yet the condition worsens. My wife now stays home to care for me and the children, which has affected our livelihood,” he said. Adamu called for urgent government intervention to prevent the disease from spreading further.
Confirming the situation, Alhaji Aliyu Hammawa, the District Head of Malabo, said no fewer than 30 people had been affected, with eight receiving treatment at Modibbo Adama University Teaching Hospital (MAUTH) in Yola, while others were treated at the local health facility. He praised the state government for its swift response and called for a thorough investigation and diagnosis.
Dr. Suleiman Bashir, Chairman of the Adamawa State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, confirmed that 28 victims had been engaged, but only eight accepted medical treatment. “The state government has covered their treatment at MAUTH, and samples have been taken for histology tests. Results are expected in the next 10 days. We urge victims to accept medical care rather than rely on traditional medicine,” Bashir stated. He also encouraged residents to promptly report unusual health conditions for proper diagnosis and intervention.
