Bilharzia disables more than it kills victims

Children are the most vulnerable due to poor hygiene and certain play habits. [Courtesy]

You can now access free treatment for schistosomiasis (bilharzia) in Lamu, Taita Taveta, Kilifi, Tana River, Kwale and Mombasa. Schistosomiasis is a chronic disease caused by parasitic worms that infect people during routine agricultural, domestic, occupational, and recreational activities that expose them to infested water.

Infection happens when larval forms of the parasite released by freshwater snails, penetrate the skin during contact with infested water. Residents of parts of central, lower eastern regions and the Lake Basin are also at risk of contracting the disease.