Jiggers; the silent killer of our people, Donya says calls for remedy

BY ERIC ABUGA

Close to two years now, Kisii Woman Rep Dorice Donya has been appealing to affected residents in the County to seek treatment at her office. 

Most people here believe that jigger infestation is a curse and anyone who is invested by jiggers is bewitched.

Reason they do not take precautions in preventing them but rather seek other related intervention. Here, superstition seem to take the order of the day.

However, a number of issues have been related to the jigger manifestation in the area; dirty bedding, poverty and negligence by the leadership and sharing of houses with domestic animals.

The Ministry of Health has emphasized that jiggers remain a major public health concern, particularly in rural communities, where they cause immense suffering and disability.

Through partnership with Social Health Workers, Donya has been able to identify those infested with jiggers across the County.

Donya emphasizes; "The psychological impact of jiggers is profound. When people are freed from the burden of diseases, they are better positioned to engage fully in community life."

She says most of those affected tend to shy away from seeking treatment hence the spread to other family members. 

"There is no doubt that we have a number of locals affected with jiggers. The use of social health workers and staff from my office help us easily identify those affected."

After treatment, families are provided with new beddings, food stiffs and while the condition of their hoses is also improved. 

"We are also carrying out public sensitization on the need to maintain high hygiene. Poverty levels could be higher but we need the collaborative approach to  eradicate the menace."

Health Ministry reaffirms commitment to eradicating this preventable condition through community education, the provision of essential resources such as footwear and sanitation kits, and the promotion of clean living environments.

"Through collaborative efforts and improved hygiene practices, we can eliminate jigger infestations and protect our communities. All of us should take personal responsibility in maintaining personal and environmental hygiene towards a jigger-free society," says Donya.