Investigating Skin Lesions Outbreak in a National Youth Service Camp South-Eastern Nigeria.

Introduction Paederus dermatitis is an acute form of dermatitis triggered by the inadvertent crushing of insects from the Paederus genus, which releases the vesicant toxin pederin. This condition is particularly prevalent during the rainy season and is commonly observed in tropical regions. Methods The objective of this study was to investigate the potential causes, mode of transmission, and effective interventions for a sudden outbreak of skin lesions, identified as Paederus dermatitis, among Batch C, Stream 1 National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members at the Umunna, Bende orientation camp in Abia State. A total of 157 corps members, who developed skin lesions between October and November 2021, were included in the study. Data were gathered through structured, interviewer-administered questionnaires, which documented participants' demographic information, medical history, and potential exposure factors. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS. All affected individuals received appropriate treatment, and preventive measures were recommended to reduce the risk of further outbreaks. Participants were monitored for two weeks until complete resolution of the lesions. Results The majority of participants were aged between 20 and 25 years, with a female-to-male ratio of 2:1. Seventy-two percent of respondents reported developing the rash, although the statistical analysis revealed no significant association between human-to-human contact and rash transmission (p-value > 0.05). In contrast, 67.9% of participants reported using tap water for bathing, which was significantly associated with the occurrence of skin lesions (p-value < 0.05). Additionally, 90% of those affected had been bitten by an insect, with this exposure showing a strong correlation with the development of the rash (p-value < 0.05). The insect responsible was identified as the "electric ant," which closely resembles the Paederus species. When crushed, the insect releases a coelomic fluid containing pederin, resulting in a linear erythematous rash accompanied by a burning sensation and pain. The typical attire of the corps members, consisting of white T-shirts and shorts, increased their vulnerability to insect contact. Regarding treatment efficacy, 37.8% of respondents rated the treatment as very effective, 36.9% as moderately effective, 16.2% as less effective, and 8.1% felt it had no effect. The treatment regimen consisted of topical steroids (hydrocortisone cream) and antibiotics (penicillin and gentamicin creams) to address the inflammation and prevent secondary bacterial infections. Conclusion The outbreak was chiefly attributed to exposure to the Paederus insect. While Paederus dermatitis is commonly observed in tropical regions such as Nigeria, its diverse clinical presentation often leads to misdiagnosis. Enhancing awareness of the condition can facilitate accurate diagnoses and streamline treatment approaches, thereby minimizing patient confusion. Additionally, effective preventive strategies and treatment options were identified during the course of the study.