Coordinator Moses Wambushi announced that the Ministry of Health will distribute 1.2 million long-lasting insecticidal nets to reduce the burden of malaria in Toyogoma Region.
Wambushi told The Star on Tuesday that the exercise will begin from June 20 to 24.
Wambushi added that the internet is critical to controlling malaria, and ministry officials will educate locals about the importance of using the internet before mass distribution begins.
“The reason we are distributing long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLIN) is because Bungo District is one of the districts with the highest malaria prevalence in the region,” said the district coordinator.
Wambushi cited a 2010 study in endemic areas of eight lakes that estimated the prevalence to be 19.2 percent.
“Toshima Ward has a high number of malaria infections, which is why its prevalence is 28 percent higher than the regional prevalence,” he said, adding that due to net distribution, the malaria prevalence in the district would be lower. added.
Wambushi said pregnant women, the elderly, young children and people with weak immune systems are more susceptible to malaria, stressing the need for them to register online.
The climate crisis is a major cause of malaria, and severe flooding will increase the number of malaria cases.
“More breeding grounds for mosquitoes means an increased spread of malaria. That is why we are taking the initiative to educate the public about the importance of being careful during these heavy rains. It is.”
“Given this climate change issue, we don't want to take a long time to distribute nets to residents,” he said.
Mr Wambushi commended the move by Health CS Susan Nakumicha to distribute community kits, saying it had helped the anti-malaria campaign.
“These Community Health Promoter (CHP) community kits have been very helpful in fighting malaria and other diseases in the villages. CHPs have links with health facilities,” he said.
Kandui Deputy County Coordinator Lilian Atieno Oro said residents, especially pregnant women and children under one year old, are vulnerable and require proactive measures and prompt medical attention.
The malaria positivity rate in Kandui was 30 percent, meaning that for every 100 people tested for malaria, at least 30 people tested positive, Oro said.
In Bungoma, the prevalence by sub-county in 2023 and 2024 is 49 percent in Bumrah, 27 percent in Cheptai, 34 percent in Kabuchai, 20 percent in Kandui, 19 percent in Kimirili, 8 percent in Mt. Elgon, Silicia. It was recorded as 46%. 12% were Tongaleng, 25% were Webuy East, and 28% were Webuy West.
