Vihiga County is committed to combating Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs), which have been afflicting a substantial part of the populace.
The County Health Promotion Officer (CHPO), Dr. Everlyne Mwango, said the prevalent NTDs in the county include schistosomiasis, soil-transmitted helminths, jiggers, and intestinal worms.
Dr. Mwango stated that they are enhancing surveillance, undertaking mass drug administration where 600, 000 school-going children were reached last year, providing community education, and ensuring improved sanitation and access to clean water.
The medic underscored the importance of community involvement in disease prevention, urging residents to embrace hygienic practices and seek timely medical intervention.
She appealed to the people to embrace the spirit of collective action so as to be able to realise healthy communities.
The CHPO observed that in partnership with organisations such as Wash Alliance Kenya and Sustainable Jigger Project, they are focused on the mission of promoting quality healthcare services as stipulated in the County Integrated Development Plan (CIDP) 2023-2027.
By Sammy Mwibanda