NAIROBI, Kenya – A new medication has been developed to combat the debilitating effects of jigger infestation, also known as Tungiasis.
This innovative lotion, produced by Saraya Kenya in collaboration with Nagasaki University, the Ministry of Health, and Ahadi Kenya Trust, promises to treat the condition painlessly within two weeks.
The groundbreaking medication has been in development for the past 15 years, undergoing rigorous testing to ensure its efficacy and safety.
Saraya Kenya’s Managing Director, Takeo Hojo, expressed confidence in the program’s potential to benefit those affected by jiggers, a major health challenge particularly prevalent in impoverished regions.
“We are highly confident that this program will be highly beneficial to everyone involved in the fight against jiggers,” said Hojo.
He highlighted that jigger infestation can be prevented through improved living conditions and proper medical interventions, emphasizing the lotion’s role in improving health and productivity among patients.
Health Principal Secretary Muthoni confirmed that over 1.4 million Kenyans are suffering from jigger infestation, with the highest prevalence rates in the poorest households of Central, Nyanza, Western, Coast, and Rift Valley regions.
She praised the new medication as a crucial achievement in reducing the suffering caused by jiggers and enhancing 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 called on county governments to ensure the medication is provided for free to those 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 urged.
Kamau also highlighted the severe risks associated with traditional treatment methods, which sometimes involve dangerous substances or practices.
He noted that in some cases, houses have been burned down as patients used paraffin to treat jiggers, and some have contracted HIV/AIDS due to sharing needles.
Tessie Musalia, who attended the event, emphasized the importance of including the lotion among the items provided to community health volunteers to help treat jiggers at the grassroots level.
“With concerted efforts, it’s very easy to eradicate jiggers in the country,” she said.
