20101009
RFI

Authorities in Uganda are launching a drive to deal with a jigger outbreak in the east of the country. The blood-sucking parasites have infested the entire Busoga region which has a population of two million people. The jigger infestation is said to be so bad it has already led to several deaths.

"Last week a three year old baby girl died after succumbing to the blood sucking parasites," says correspondent Patricia Okoéd Bukumunhe. "Other deaths of mostly youngsters and the elderly have been recorded as well as cases of entire families being admitted to hospital."

The insects have infected all nine districts of the Busoga region attacking peoples' feet and hands.

"Infestation of jiggers leads to severe inflammation, loss of toes and fingers," Patricia Okoéd Bukumunhe told RFI. "Jiggers develop from flees which are carried by pigs, poultry, cattle, sheep and rats".

Rebecca Kadaga, deputy speaker of the Ugandan parliament is leading the fight against jiggers.

She is talking to people, encouraging them to not sleep on the floor and not to share houses with their livestock.

The jigger issue has become a political issue with opposition supporters accusing the government of not doing enough to guarantee the wellbeing of the people of Busoga

"There's no excuse whatsoever that we the people of Busoga can be hosts to jiggers," says Salaam Musumba, vice president of the Forum for Democratic Change opposition party.

"It's laughable that we have ministers from Busoga - they should have resigned long ago, for failure," says Musumba, who comes from Busoga.