Bombali District Ulcer Outbreak Confirmed by Health Agency

Bombali District Ulcer Outbreak Confirmed by Health Agency

The National Public Health Agency (NPHA), in partnership with the Ministry of Health, has confirmed an outbreak of cutaneous ulcers caused by Haemophilus ducreyi in the Bombali District, Northern Province. The majority of reported cases are among the pediatric population.

The outbreak was initially identified on November 17, 2025, in the Kayassic Community of Safroko Limba Chiefdom and has since been documented across 27 communities within the chiefdom. The condition has predominantly affected children between the ages of 5 and 15 years.

As of December 24, 2025, the NPHA has recorded 267 suspected cases, with 96 cases confirmed via laboratory testing. Officials report that 150 individuals have recovered, and no fatalities have been recorded to date. Active monitoring is currently underway for 211 contacts linked to confirmed cases.

Health officials have noted that males account for approximately 56 percent of the reported cases. Clinical symptoms include painful, slow-healing skin ulcers, primarily located on the extremities, occasionally accompanied by localized lymphadenopathy and mild systemic illness. Authorities have confirmed that no severe cases necessitating hospital admission have been identified.

In response to the outbreak, the NPHA has activated a comprehensive public health strategy, encompassing enhanced disease surveillance, laboratory diagnostics, and community-based case management delivered through local health facilities. Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) measures have been intensified, with training provided to healthcare workers and community members on appropriate wound care, hand hygiene, and safe medical waste management.

Environmental sanitation activities are being implemented in affected communities to mitigate further transmission, and patient isolation protocols are being applied where medically necessary within healthcare settings.

The NPHA and the Ministry of Health strongly advise the public to promptly report any suspicious skin lesions, refrain from sharing personal items such as towels and clothing, and adhere to high standards of personal and environmental hygiene.

Health authorities have assured the public that the outbreak is under control, emphasizing that sustained vigilance, early case reporting, and community cooperation are essential for preventing further dissemination. Officials state that regular updates will be disseminated as the response efforts continue.