Oyundi’s Left Hand – So Many Jiggers: A Story of Pain, Courage, and Healing

Oyundi’s left hand became a symbol of silent suffering in rural Kenya, where jigger infestation continues to plague impoverished communities. Captured in a powerful video by Rise Up Society, his case revealed the devastating impact of Tunga penetrans, the parasitic flea responsible for tungiasis.

🦶 What Are Jiggers?

Jiggers are tiny sand fleas that burrow into the skin, especially on feet and hands. Once embedded, the female flea lays eggs, causing:

• Painful swelling
• Itching and inflammation
• Open sores and secondary infections
• Difficulty using affected limbs

In Oyundi’s case, his left hand was severely infested—dozens of jiggers had burrowed deep into the skin, forming clusters that distorted his fingers and palm.

🧼 The Digging Process

The treatment, known as “jigger digging,” involves manually removing each flea using sterilized tools. In Oyundi’s session:

• The caregiver gently pierced the skin to expose the flea
• Each jigger was carefully extracted to avoid rupture
• The wounds were cleaned with antiseptic
• Bandages were applied to protect the healing skin

The process was slow and painful, but Oyundi remained calm and cooperative, showing remarkable resilience.

💔 Social and Emotional Impact

Jigger victims often suffer in silence due to:

• Stigma: Infestation is wrongly associated with laziness or curses
• Isolation: Victims may withdraw from school, work, or social life
• Shame: Visible sores and deformities lead to ridicule
• Neglect: Many lack access to treatment or even basic hygiene supplies

Oyundi’s case highlighted how jiggers can rob individuals of dignity, mobility, and confidence.

❤️ Community Response

Rise Up Society has been instrumental in treating jigger victims across Kenya. Their work includes:

• Providing medical care and hygiene kits
• Educating communities about prevention
• Distributing shoes to children
• Documenting cases to raise awareness

Oyundi’s treatment was part of a broader campaign to restore hope and dignity to those affected.

🛡️ Prevention and Healing

To prevent future infestations, communities need:

• Closed footwear to protect against flea-infested soil
• Improved housing with cement floors
• Regular hygiene including hand and foot washing
• Animal control to reduce flea carriers like dogs and pigs
• Education to dispel myths and encourage early treatment

Post-treatment care includes keeping wounds clean, monitoring for infection, and providing emotional support.