By: Abdullah Oladejo

The University of Ibadan Students’ Union Health Advisory Committee has issued a warning to the student community following the outbreak of human botfly infestations among some students.

In a memorandum dated July 15, 2025, the Students’ Union leadership confirmed an ongoing medical treatment of some affected students.

A release, co-signed by the Health Committee Chairman, Olademeji Muheez, and the Students’ Union House Secretary, Oluwaseun Adeyemi, charged students to take preventive measures to forestall being victims of the infestation.

“Use insect repellent regularly, especially at night during night reading. Avoid sleeping outdoors. Maintain good hygiene and ensure your room is free from stagnant water and insect breeding sites. Seek medical attention immediately if you notice unusual skin swellings. Let us all remain vigilant and informed. Health is a collective responsibility,” the memorandum reads.

Human botfly Infestations could be caused when mosquitoes, acting as vectors, deposit botfly egg on human skin, leading to painful swellings.