The Federal Government has called on Nigerians to promptly report unusual or persistent ulcers to health facilities for early diagnosis and treatment, following reports of 82 suspected cases in Adamawa State.
Dr. Adesigbin Olufemi, Acting National Coordinator of the National Tuberculosis, Leprosy and Buruli Ulcer Control Programme (NTBLCP), made the appeal in an interview with reporters in Abuja.
He explained that the suspected cases were identified in Malabu and Fufore Local Government Areas, where most patients presented with chronic ulcers affecting the limbs, and in a few cases, the face.
“Although the lesion presentations may appear consistent with Buruli ulcer, there is a need for diagnostic confirmation,” he said.
Olufemi revealed that results from 22 samples taken from patients had so far tested negative for Buruli ulcer. He added, however, that other common causes of chronic leg ulcers in tropical regions include diabetes, hypertension, trauma and venous disease.
He noted that the affected areas are marshy and hard to access, which makes surveillance and treatment delivery challenging.
According to him, a joint team from the African Field Epidemiology Network (AFENET) and the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) is already in the state to continue investigations.
Olufemi said the NTBLCP, working with partners such as REDAID, is supporting Adamawa State to provide care for affected patients. Some are receiving surgical treatment at the Modibbo Adama Teaching Hospital, Yola, while others undergo daily wound dressing in their communities. No deaths have been recorded.
He described Buruli ulcer as a neglected tropical disease caused by Mycobacterium ulcerans, which can destroy skin and soft tissue and cause permanent disability if left untreated.
The coordinator advised Nigerians to take preventive measures, including avoiding swimming or wading in stagnant or marshy waters where the bacteria may thrive, and wearing protective clothing such as boots and gloves when working in swampy environments.
He further stressed the importance of good hygiene, such as promptly cleaning wounds or cuts to prevent infection.
Olufemi urged Nigerians to seek immediate medical attention if they develop persistent or unusual ulcers, cautioning against self-medication.
“We urge communities not to panic. Investigations are ongoing and, with the support of our partners, every suspected case will receive the necessary medical attention. Early reporting is key to saving lives and preventing complications,” he said.
