Jiggers Campaign
Background
In 2012 WOPLAH identified jiggers as a pressing health issue in the community. Jiggers, mostly found in dusty, unhygienic areas, are parasites that burrow into feet and lay their eggs under the skin. The result is loss of toenails, toe deformation, swelling, and intense pain. This can prevent children from attending school, cause permanent disabilities, and even lead to death. Misconceptions about jiggers are a main barrier to prevention and treatment. Many people believe that jiggers are a curse or are inherited. WOPLAH sees jiggers eradication as relevant to their mission because it is more likely to affect previously vulnerable populations that are living positively with HIV/AIDs. Additionally, the liklihood of school dropout after becoming infected with jiggers is high, and the resulting lack of education can increase one's vulnerability to HIV/AIDs. WOPLAH recognized jiggers as a health issue with a solution, and in 2013 they started their first jiggers campaign in an attempt to educate people about jiggers, cure jiggers infections, and teach preventative measures.
Background
Objectives
The methodology of the jiggers campaign is currently being reevaluted. WOPLAH would like to shift the focus from a reactive treatment plan to a preventative one. WOPLAH believes that educating Community Health Workers and vulnerable communities about jiggers infection is the most sustainable method for reducing the number of jiggers infections.
Objectives
The Future
WOPLAH uses a comprehensive training plan consisting of training Community Health Workers (CHW) to conduct large-scale outreach campaigns at the household level. The training dispels myths about the cause of jiggers, covers proper hygiene, preventative treatment of living structures, proper prevention techniques and infection treatment for both children and adults. CHWs will be equipped with medical kits containing omo detergent, medical gloves, sodium bicarbonate and various medications. WOPLAH's goal is to create a sustainable method for reducing the number of school dropouts due to jiggers infections, and eventually eradicating jiggers in Western Kakamega County.
The Future
