A 12 year old jigger infested child is undergoing medical treatment at Lira regional referral hospital following the arrest of his grandfather over alleged negligence.
Police has identified the minor as Nelson Okori.
His grandfather identified as Kali Jasper (50), a resident of Alit Village, Adola parish, Amach sub-county in Lira district was arrested and charged with negligence on Sunday.
Kali is being held at Lira Central Police Station pending appearance in court to answer charges of child neglect of his grandson. He is expected to appear in court on Tuesday.
Joe Otim, officer in charge Child and Family protection Unit, says Police acted after receiving a tip from the village that a 12 year old child was suffering a severe jigger infestation that put his life at risk.
Otim said the case was first reported at Majan police outpost in Amach sub-county.
The child told Police that he first suffered an attack of jiggers in 2011 but did not receive treatment. The ailment became so severe that he was eventually forced to drop out of school as he had trouble walking or holding a plate of food.
Jigger outbreaks first came to national attention in 2010/2011 when sections of Busoga region suffered the blight.
Jiggers embed themselves in the skin especially the feet and ankles. They feed on the blood and flesh of their host. Heavy infestations can lead to severe inflammation, ulceration and fibrosis.
Health workers say the female jigger lays about 100 eggs each, and 30 days later the process can start again.
