INFLUENCE OF JIGGER INFESTATION ON ATTENDANCE RATES OF STUDENTS IN PUBLIC DAY SECONDARY SCHOOLS OF BUMULA SUB COUNTY, BUNGOMA COUNTY, KENY

Abstract

Studies showed the severity of jigger infestation, among community members generally from the children, youth, and aged population. Still, there is little documented evidence of, how jigger infestation influences students' attendance, therefore, this study established the influence of jigger infestation on students' attendance rates in public day secondary schools in Bumula Sub-County, Bungoma County, Kenya. The specific objectives were; to determine the extent of jigger infestation among students, to assess the influence of jigger infestation on attendance rates, and to examine strategies employed to mitigate jigger infestation among students in Bumula Sub-County, Bungoma County, Kenya. The study used Ecological Systems theory and adopted a mixed-method research design. The study targeted 10,000 students 15- 20 years from public day secondary schools. A sample of 370 students was obtained from Krejcie and Morgan's 1970 formulae. The study purposively sampled 20 Key informants the CHPs (community health promoters), head teachers, and local Chiefs to participate in the study. The study employed primary data which was collected using structured questionnaires and interviews. secondary data was collected by studying the progress records, attendance registers, and end-term report forms. A pilot study was conducted at Kabuchai Sub-County, of Bungoma County. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 27 to determine the study's findings. Data was presented using descriptive statistics in the form of frequencies, graphs, tables, and charts. The study also revealed a high prevalence of persistent infestation in 56.7% of students (They were absent from school due to pain, itching, and social isolation). It also indicated jigger infestation had influenced attendance rates. It highlighted that most schools lag behind in implementation of key measures to address the infestation. The study recommended establishing and strengthening school health clinics, conducting regular check-ups. Implement community hygiene and education programs to lessen the impact. This multi stakeholder approach is essential to address poverty and improve hygiene in schools and homes. These findings, if adopted, will guide policymakers, teachers, parents, and the community in managing and reducing jigger infestation in public secondary schools.