Ugandan MPs have called for the arrest of people infected with jigger-fleas

The MPs said those infected were flouting the public health laws but the call has been criticised by Ugandans. "We are going to arrest people with jiggers for failing to take care of their bodies as per the Public Health Act," MP Aggrey Bagiire said. Jiggers, also known as Tungiasis, is caused by the chigoe or sand flea, which burrows into the skin. The most common area of infestation is the feet. Recently, a family of five suffering from jigger infection was admitted to hospital in Jinja District. John Kapere, 60, and his four children, could hardly walk as jiggers had infected their legs and other parts of their bodies. The Busoga region in western Uganda has a high rate of jigger infestation. "It is total negligence for any sane Ugandan to suffer from jiggers," Mr Bagiire said. But the MPs' suggestion has been criticized - members of the public say those infected with jiggers are often poor and need medical assistance.