Philip was unable to walk due to his remaining leg and foot being severely swollen because of jiggers. Jiggers are sand fleas that burrow into human skin and can cause infection. Philip came to a medical clinic in Nukuru to receive treatment for his leg. Whilst we were able to treat his legs successfully, this is only part of the solution.
The poor in this part Kenya are highly vulnerable to jiggers as they have rudimentary houses with earth floors. Many people in Uasin Gishu live with swollen legs. Having treated Philip’s legs, we were able to protect him and his family for the future by building them a new house. This new house has a concrete floor and doors and windows that can be closed. Together with improved hygiene and vigilance, this can prevent Philip from acquiring further infestations of jiggers so that he can continue to provide for his family.