A strange illness has swept through parts of Bida Local Government Area in Niger State, leaving nearly 50 individuals affected and 24 hospitalised.
The ailment, which has baffled residents and health officials, remains unidentified, sparking widespread concern in the region.
The illness has been reported in several communities, including Ekoko, Tutijiba, Banin Bida, Laruta, and Edogiful, with Laruta experiencing the highest number of cases.
Witness accounts reveal that the illness strikes abruptly, causing individuals to collapse into a near-comatose state without warning.
Victims reportedly exhibit symptoms such as prolonged unconsciousness, fever, body weakness, nerve numbness, and difficulty walking or speaking. In some instances, patients were observed foaming at the mouth during these episodes.
Medical facilities in Bida, including Umaru Sanda Ndayako Hospital and the Federal Medical Centre Bida, have been overwhelmed with cases.
While many patients have been treated locally, a few have been referred to specialist hospitals in Gwagwalada and Abuja for advanced care. Tragically, one death has been confirmed so far.
In response to the outbreak, the Chairman of Bida Local Government, Bala Shaba, has dispatched medical teams to affected areas and is working to contain the spread of the illness. Residents have been urged to remain calm as health authorities investigate the situation.
The situation has caused panic in the affected communities, prompting some residents to flee to neighbouring towns and villages.
Many have appealed to the Niger State and federal governments to take urgent action, with suspicions that the illness might be airborne.
Health officials have suggested that untreated severe typhoid and malaria could be contributing to the cases.
Dr. Bello Tukur, Niger State Commissioner for Secondary and Tertiary Health, disclosed that blood samples collected from patients revealed traits of poorly treated malaria and typhoid fever.
An investigation into the outbreak commenced on January 20, 2025, following reports received by the Disease Surveillance Unit. As of now, three patients remain under observation—two at FMC Bida and one at Umaru Sanda Ndayako Hospital—while 20 others have been discharged after treatment.
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention is currently conducting laboratory tests to identify the disease, as health authorities continue efforts to prevent its spread and ensure public safety.
