Jigger Digging: Daniel Mokhae’s Left Foot Treated for the Second Time
Daniel Mokhae’s case is one of the most visually intense and emotionally moving examples of jigger infestation documented by Rise Up Society (RUS), a nonprofit organization working to combat tungiasis in Kenya. His second jigger digging session, focused on his left foot, reveals the painful persistence of the condition and the compassionate efforts required to treat it.
🦶 The Extent of Infestation
Daniel’s left foot was severely affected, with dozens of jiggers embedded deep into the skin around his toes, sole, and under the nails. The parasites caused:
- Swelling and deformation of the toes
- Cracked, bleeding skin
- Intense pain and difficulty walking
- Secondary infections and foul odor
This was not his first treatment—his foot had previously been dug, but reinfestation occurred due to environmental conditions and lack of protective footwear.
🛠️ The Digging Process
The second digging session was meticulous and slow. Volunteers from RUS:
- Cleaned the foot with antiseptic
- Used sterilized needles and tweezers to extract each flea
- Removed egg sacs and dead tissue
- Applied disinfectants and bandages to prevent infection
The process took nearly an hour and required immense patience and care. Daniel endured the pain quietly, a testament to his resilience and desperation for relief.
🧱 Environmental Challenges
Daniel’s living conditions—dirt floors, lack of shoes, and poor sanitation—made him highly vulnerable to reinfestation. Jiggers thrive in dusty environments, and without concrete flooring or regular hygiene, even treated individuals can be re-infested within weeks.
RUS aims to address these root causes by:
- Providing shoes and hygiene kits
- Educating families on prevention
- Cementing floors to eliminate breeding grounds
- Offering follow-up care and emotional support
💔 Social and Emotional Impact
Daniel’s condition had isolated him socially. The visible damage and odor from infected wounds often lead to stigma, shame, and withdrawal. Many victims, like Daniel, suffer in silence until organizations like RUS intervene.
His second treatment was not just physical—it was symbolic. It represented hope, dignity, and the possibility of healing.
🌱 A Message of Hope
Daniel’s story is a reminder that jigger infestation is not a one-time event—it requires ongoing care, environmental change, and community support. His second digging session shows the importance of follow-up treatment and the need for sustainable solutions.
