Panic in Adamawa as mysterious flesh-eating disease affects 30

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By Joseph Adahnu, Yola

A mysterious flesh-eating ailment is threatening Malabu in Fufore Local Government Area of Adamawa State affecting 30 victims with severe pains.

The strange disease or ailment outbreak starts as a painful boil burst progressively devouring flesh and damaging bones, the local authorities said.

Victims described harrowing experiences of deteriorating health and mounting financial burdens, with many unable to continue their daily activities or support their families.

A resident battling the condition, recounted her ordeal: “It started like a boil with pains, later got swollen and burst, then began to eat up the flesh on my leg, damaging the bones and causing serious pain. This has left me with an open wound. I can’t explain what is happening to me.”

Also a victim, Malam Junaidu Adamu, shared a similar story, noting that the disease struck after he returned from his farm two months ago. “It started like a boil, then burst and spread until my flesh started decaying.”

The District Head of Malabu, Alhaji Aliyu Hammawa confirmed that at least 30 residents have been affected, with eight currently receiving treatment at Modibbo Adama University Teaching Hospital (MAUTH) in Yola, while others are being managed at the local health facility.

He lauded the efforts state government’s prompt response but urged for a rapid investigation to identify the cause of the outbreak.

The Chairman of Adamawa State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, Dr. Suleiman Bashir revealed that the agency, in collaboration with local authorities, has engaged 28 victims, though only eight have accepted medical treatment.

According to Bashir, “The state government has covered the cost of treatment at MAUTH, and samples have been taken for histology tests, with results expected in the next 10 days”.

He encouraged residents to seek medical care rather than relying on traditional remedies and to report unusual health conditions promptly for proper diagnosis and referral.