Breakthrough in anti-jigger campaign as medication is innovated

The anti-jigger campaign has received a major breakthrough following the formulation of a medication that will treat the pests painlessly.

The lotion has been produced by Saraya Kenya, a Non-governmental organisation that promotes sanitation, in collaboration with Nagasaki University in Japan, the Ministry of Health and Ahadi Kenya Trust.

The new medication will see jigger patients get treated in a period of two weeks and will work by suppressing and treating infections caused by jiggers.

According to Saraya Kenya's Managing Director Takeo Hojo, the medication has been under research for the last 15 years and has been put through rigorous testing.

“We are highly confident that this programme will be highly beneficial to everyone involved in the fight against jiggers,” Hojo said.

He said jigger infestation, also known as Tungiasis, presents a significant health challenge especially in impoverished regions.

This is despite the fact that it can be prevented through improved living conditions and appropriate medical interventions.

 “We sincerely hope this medication will play a vital role in eradication of jiggers in Kenya and provide patients with the opportunity to lead healthier and more productive lives,” he said.

Hojo added that Saraya Kenya is committed towards research and development of hygiene products and pharmaceuticals with the goal of consistently providing products and services that enhance health and wellbeing.

Health Principal Secretary Muthoni confirmed that there are over 1.4 million Kenyans suffering from jigger infestation.

The highest prevalence rates are among the poorest households in Central, Nyanza, Western, Coast and Rift Valley regions.

The PS said complications from jigger infestation are a leading cause of disability, morbidity and sometimes mortality, especially in school-going children, the elderly, and people living with disabilities.

Its risk factors include poor housing, poor personal hygiene, spending time in areas infested by fleas, and sharing accommodation with livestock and poultry.

Muthoni noted that the government has adopted a multi-agency approach to fight the menace citing Ahadi Kenya and Saraya Kenya as key partners that have helped make significant progress in the reduction of prevalence.

She lauded the innovation of the medication as a vital achievement that will reduce the suffering caused by the condition and improve the quality of life for patients.

“Through joint initiatives, we have enhanced public awareness, improved access to treatment, and implemented preventive measures that are making a tangible difference in the lives of those affected,” Muthoni said.

Ahadi Kenya Trust CEO Stanley Kamau on his part called on county governments to put in place policies that will make it possible to disburse the medication for free to the affected.

“The Ministry of Health should partner with county governments to have the medication provided for free. My plea is to county assemblies to ensure the necessary laws are put in place to support it because most of those affected cannot afford it,” Kamau said.

He said though a jigger is a small pest, it costs a lot to treat it and that some of the substances used by some patients pose various risks to them.

In some instances, Kamau said some houses have burnt down as patients used paraffin to treat jiggers while others were infected with diseases such as HIV/AIDs due to sharing of needles.

“Some people think jigger infestation is caused by witchcraft but the medication will make it painless and cheaper,” he said.

Tessie Musalia who also attended the event said the lotion should be included among the items provided to community health volunteers to help treat jiggers at the grassroots.

“With concerted efforts, it’s very easy to eradicate jiggers in the country,” she said.