Trans Nzoia County Hosts Stakeholders’ Meeting to Combat Neglected Tropical Diseases

Category: Health Sevices & Sanitation

Date: November 25, 2024

Trans Nzoia County's Department of Health convened a stakeholders’ meeting to address Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs), planning a Mass Drug Administration (MDA) program to combat diseases like schistosomiasis, intestinal worms, and trypanosomiasis.

The Trans Nzoia County Department of Health and Sanitation convened a stakeholders’ meeting to discuss strategies for tackling Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs). These ailments, including schistosomiasis, trypanosomiasis, dengue fever, rabies, and snakebites, disproportionately affect local communities but have historically received minimal attention from health authorities.

Urgent Need for Action
Dr. Nobert Musundi, the County Public Health Coordinator, highlighted the prevalence of NTDs such as soil-transmitted diseases and schistosomiasis, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions. “These diseases have received limited attention from the Ministry of Health, yet they continue to affect our communities. It is time for a focused intervention,” he said.

Mass Drug Administration Initiative
The county will roll out a Mass Drug Administration (MDA) program from December 5 to 9, 2024, targeting 23 wards, with the exception of Kiminini and Makutano in Cherangani Sub-County, where disease prevalence is low. Keiyo Ward in Kwanza Sub-County has the highest prevalence of schistosomiasis, exceeding 3%.

Drugs such as mebendazole and praziquantel will be administered to treat intestinal worms and schistosomiasis. However, specific groups, including children under one year, pregnant women, and individuals with severe illnesses, are exempt from the program.

Focus on Prevention and Hygiene
Dr. Musundi stressed that improved water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) facilities are critical to breaking the transmission cycle of NTDs. “Prevention starts with behavioural changes like latrine use and proper hygiene,” he noted.

Saboti Sub-County Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Erick Wasilwa, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the integration of WASH initiatives with NTD interventions for long-term impact.

Stakeholder Collaboration
The meeting brought together various stakeholders, including local administrators, health practitioners, religious leaders, and representatives from AMREF Kenya and the Ministry of Health. AMREF’s Michael Aruya pledged support to ensure the success of the five-day MDA exercise.

Trans Nzoia West Deputy County Commissioner (DCC) Emmah Kibara urged community members to embrace the initiative, emphasizing its importance for public health and productivity. “A healthy community translates to a productive nation. Let us work together to ensure everyone participates in this program,” Kibara said.

Call for Hygiene Awareness
Saboti Sub-County Public Health Officer Mercy Obonyo highlighted the need for heightened hygiene practices, such as regular handwashing and proper food handling. She noted that poor sanitation in nine wards, including Machewa and Saboti, has contributed to the persistence of soil-transmitted infections.

Outlook

Stakeholders expressed optimism about the upcoming MDA program, viewing it as a vital step toward reducing the burden of NTDs in Trans Nzoia County. With robust community engagement and sustained WASH initiatives, the program is expected to improve health outcomes and foster a healthier, more productive population.