Kalaazar disease torments young learners in West Pokot

Kalaazar also known as Visceral Leishmaniasis has proved to be one of the most tropical diseases in the arid parts of West Pokot affecting hundreds of young learners silently without being noticed. 

The disease, caused by a Protozoa parasite of sandfly species, has seen a majority of pastoralist children affected.

As a result, several groups are now calling for an increased advocacy and mobilization to ensure that the education and health of the children is not compromised.

According to a report by the Kacheliba Kalaazar Treatment and Research Centre, 70% of its kalaazar patients are children under the age of 15.

The disease, characterized by prolonged fever, weight loss, and an enlarged spleen and liver, mimics malaria, leading to frequent misdiagnosis and delayed treatment.

Parents like George Lokeris have experienced the harrowing journey of seeking treatment for their sick children.

Lokeris shares that his son, Henry Kisang, had to drop out of school for nearly a year before being correctly diagnosed at the Kacheliba centre.

Despite these challenges, organizations like the Drugs for Neglected Diseases Initiative (DNDi) are working to improve treatment accessibility for rural and remote communities.

However, the impact of kalaazar on West Pokot’s children calls for increased advocacy and mobilization to secure their education and health.

Kalaazar, caused by a protozoan parasite transmitted by sandflies, is fatal if left untreated in over 95% of its cases.