TBL Supervisor: Early detection, correct information key to reducing burden of Buruli Ulcer in rural communities

The Health Supervisor in-charge of Tuberculosis, Buruli Ulcer and Leprosy (TBL) in Awka North, under the Anambra State Primary Health Care Development Agency (ASPHCDA), Mrs. Celestina Igwe, has stressed that early detection and accurate information are crucial to reducing the growing burden of Buruli Ulcer in rural communities.

Mrs. Igwe made this known during the Awba-Ofemili Community Health Awareness Campaign held on Thursday, October 23, 2025 (Nkwo Market Day) at the Civic Centre, Awba-Ofemili, themed “Buruli Ulcer (Elu-Ulee or Ulee-Okpa): Know the Signs, Stop the Spread.”

She explained that Buruli Ulcer, locally known as Elu-Ulee, is a neglected tropical disease caused by Mycobacterium ulcerans; the same bacterial family responsible for tuberculosis and leprosy.

The disease, she said, often begins as a painless swelling, nodule, or plaque on the skin, which can progress into large ulcers and severe deformities if left untreated.

“Early detection and correct information remain our strongest tools in reducing the burden of Buruli Ulcer, especially in rural communities where myths and misinformation delay treatment,” Mrs. Igwe said.

Accompanied by the Head of the Primary Health Centre, Awba-Ofemili, Mrs. Justina Ofuonu, Mrs. Igwe warned that misinformation, including beliefs that the disease is caused by witchcraft or spiritual attacks, continues to endanger lives and hinder timely medical intervention.

“Many people waste precious time seeking spiritual help instead of visiting health facilities. This allows the infection to spread deeper, causing severe damage that could have been easily prevented with early care,” she said.

She commended the Awba-Ofemili Development Union (ADU) Health Committee, led by Ogbuefi (Sir) Remmy Nweke, for organizing the campaign in collaboration with the Nigerian Red Cross Society (Anambra State Branch) and the ASPHCDA, describing it as a “timely and impactful initiative that brings health education to the grassroots.”

Mrs. Igwe further noted that the State TBL Unit has intensified outreach and surveillance efforts across Awka North to identify early cases and improve community health literacy. She urged residents to report any unusual skin swellings or ulcers at the nearest Primary Health Centre, assuring them that treatment is available within the state at St Joseph Specialist Hospital Adaziani.

“With awareness, early detection, and prompt treatment, Buruli Ulcer can be effectively controlled, saving lives and preventing disability,” she emphasized.

In her remarks, Mrs. Justina Ofuonu, Head of the Primary Health Centre, Awba-Ofemili, pledged continued collaboration with the ADU Health Committee and community volunteers to strengthen early diagnosis, referral, and follow-up care.

The event featured sensitization talks by Red Cross educators, free medical checks, and distribution of First Aid Boxes to schools and local institutions, with wide participation from community leaders, teachers, and students.