A Sh 1 billion campaign against elephantiasis is set to kick off in the Coast region.
The campaign, which will commence on November 19, will target Mombasa, Tana River, Kilifi, Lamu, and Taita Taveta Counties.
The exercise will entail mass administration of different drugs and surgical operations for those affected.
Head of Neglected Tropical Diseases Unit Dr Sultani Matendechero, said the campaign will be rolled out in all sub-counties in Mombasa, Kilifi, Lamu and Tana River, but will only target Taveta Sub-County in Taita Taveta County.
Dr Matendechero said patients who suffer from the disease often experience mental, social and economic problems.
“These patients are not only physically disabled, but suffer mental, social and financial losses contributing to stigma and poverty,” noted Dr Matendechero, as quoted by Capital FM.
The campaign, which began last year, will be launched in Mombasa County for the first time.
“We plan to run these campaigns over the next four years including this one and then we shall do a Transmission Assessment Survey that will determine whether or not we are certified as Elephantiasis free,” added Dr Matendechero.