Vihiga and Bungoma are leveraging collaboration and strategic initiatives to combat neglected tropical diseases (NTDs), particularly schistosomiasis (Bilharzia) and intestinal worms. These persistent health challenges, fueled by inadequate sanitation and limited access to clean water, affect vulnerable populations across Kenya. However, through comprehensive Mass Drug Administration (MDA) campaigns, both counties are making significant progress toward eliminating these diseases.
Through a coordinated approach in Vihiga County, the third round of MDA efforts is underway, following the successes of previous interventions in 2021 and 2022. Khainga Fanuel, Vihiga’s County Coordinator for NTDs, emphasized the importance of robust training for health personnel and community drug distributors (CDDs). These individuals form the backbone of the program, ensuring drugs like Praziquantel, Mebendazole, and Albendazole are administered safely and effectively.
“Our training model cascades from county-level medical professionals to community health workers, equipping them with the skills to manage dosages, address side effects, and engage with communities,” explained Khainga. The program leverages digital tools such as the Electronic Community Health Information System (eCHIS) to enhance service delivery. eCHIS facilitates real-time data entry and storage, reducing manual errors and improving data accuracy. It also tracks treatment coverage in real-time, enabling timely adjustments to ensure no population group is left behind while monitoring adverse drug reactions and responses with immediate reporting and resolution through integrated feedback systems. Additionally, eCHIS generates reports on key performance indicators, aiding decision-making and ensuring stakeholder accountability. The data collected integrates seamlessly with larger health information systems, contributing to national surveillance and reporting efforts.
Community engagement has been key in high-prevalence areas such as North East Bunyore ward, where Bilharzia affects over 2% of the population. “Explaining why the drugs are being administered helps foster trust and cooperation, reducing resistance,” Khainga noted.
While challenges persist, particularly in Mwibona ward, where prevalence remains high, Khainga remains optimistic. “With sustained MDA, health education, behavior change programs, and improvements in water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH), we can significantly reduce these numbers,” he stated, highlighting the support of organizations like Amref Health Africa and End Fund.
In neighboring Bungoma County, a similarly ambitious MDA campaign is tackling the dual burden of worms and Bilharzia. Dr. Wanambisi Caleb Watta, Bungoma’s County Director of Health and Sanitation, underlined the urgency of the program, citing the severe health complications these diseases cause, including anemia, malnutrition, and intestinal blockages.
The initiative, supported by Amref Health Africa and End Fund, began with a Training of Trainers program that empowered community health promoters to reach every household. “Mass drug administration provides a preventive strategy, enabling our residents to achieve healthier lives,” Dr. Watta said. Bungoma plans to integrate routine deworming services into health facilities to sustain these efforts.
Public health officers like Monicah Birech, who coordinates NTD interventions in Kabuchai Sub-County, have been instrumental in raising awareness about disease prevention. “We underestimated the burden of these diseases before Amref’s research,” Monicah admitted. “Now, we’re equipped to bring real change, going door-to-door to educate families and train health promoters.”
The program focuses on breaking cycles of reinfection through community-wide treatment, social mobilization and hygiene education. Children and women of reproductive age, often the hardest hit due to exposure to contaminated soil, are a key focus of these efforts. While logistical hurdles and social resistance pose challenges, training initiatives have equipped health workers with strategies to overcome these barriers.
Both counties demonstrate the transformative potential of well-coordinated MDA campaigns and community-driven approaches. With the coordination of the ministry of health and support of organizations like Amref Health Africa and End Fund, these initiatives address not only treatment but also prevention, education, and sustained behavior change.
“Eliminating schistosomiasis (Bilharzia) and intestinal worms is an achievable goal,” Monicah Birech said. Khainga Fanuel echoed this sentiment: “With coordinated efforts, thorough training, and community support, Vihiga County will see a healthier future free of neglected tropical diseases.”