Jigger infestation strikes two Amuru villages

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Two villages in Parabongo parish, Lamogi sub-county in Amuru district, are grappling with a jigger infestation.

The affected villages are Jimo and Abye, where residents have reportedly suffered from the infestation over the past two weeks.

Nancy Ajok, one of the victims, on February 11, 2026, said the jiggers have severely affected her toes as well as those of her two children.

Lamogi sub-county chairperson Atkinson Ojara told New Vision Online that over 47 people, both children and adults, have been affected in the two villages.

When contacted, the Amuru district health officer, Dr Alfred Okello, said his office had not yet received an official report about the outbreak in Lamogi.

However, he confirmed that jigger infestation is highly contagious and spreads quickly, especially during the dry season.

Okello explained that jigger infestation is a neglected tropical disease caused by the penetration of sand fleas into the skin, particularly on the feet, where they feed and lay eggs.

He added that the wounds caused by jiggers lead to pain and discomfort and may result in secondary infections such as tetanus.

Okello identified the most vulnerable groups as children aged between five and 14, who often play barefoot in sandy or dusty areas; elderly persons who may struggle with personal hygiene or mobility; and persons with disabilities (PWDs) who lack adequate support.

He said health teams are being deployed to the affected villages to investigate the situation and implement preventive measures to curb further spread.