Kenya Fights Rising Jigger Infestation in Schools
During the International Jiggers Day event in Khwisero Constituency, Chief Executive of Ahadi Kenya Stanley Kamau warned school heads against sending learners away from classes due to jigger infestations.
Kamau emphasized that jigger infestation is a health condition that needs to be addressed rather than ignored. He added that affected learners, especially school-going children, need assistance and support, and schools should establish hygiene clubs to raise awareness about the issue.
Kamau further noted that the prevalence of jigger infestation in the country has risen by 15% due to prolonged drought, with the Western region having the highest infestation followed by the Coastal, Central, and Nyanza regions.
He attributed the high infestation rates in Busia county to high poverty levels that lead to poor sanitation, adding that poverty needs to be fought and eliminated.
Kakamega County Education Director Dickson Ogonya revealed that jigger infestation has negatively affected learning in the county, with many learners dropping out of school. He warned school heads against sending learners away due to disease, stating that such actions are against the law.
Kakamega County Executive Committee Member for Health Dr Bernard Wesonga identified Khwisero, Mumias East, Mumias West, Butere, and Matungu as the most affected constituencies with jigger infestations.
Susan Mutua, Head of Public Health at the Ministry of Health, stated that the national government is offering technical support and policy formulation to eradicate jigger infestations, especially in schools and rural areas.
Kenya Fights Rising Jigger Infestation in Schools
