Bilharzia or snail fever, is a neglected tropical disease (NTD) that affects more than 240 million people worldwide.
Bilharzia is caused by parasitic worms affecting the urinary system. If the worms are in the blood vessels, it can harm other organs like the liver and kidneys. The county government deals with 1,200 to 1,500 cases of bilharzia every year.
The Coastal region, parts of Central and Lower Eastern areas and the Lake Victoria basin are the three major endemic areas.
The disease can lead to chronic inflammation of the organs, which can be fatal.