Campaign to eradicate infant gum piercing

Kiambu,

Friday, December 15, 2023,

KNA by Muoki Charles

A Machakos-based NGO has partnered with the County government to discourage traditional gum piercing methods for infants during teething, which have been proven harmful and fatal.

The practice involves removing an unerupted false milk tooth in infants to prevent stomach complications, persistent fever, vomiting, and lack of appetite. They have trained over 1,500 community health promoters on proper and hygienic ways of administering the services at the community level as well as sensitizing residents on the need to end the practice. 

In most cases, the elderly often use sharp, unhygienic tools, such as needles, pen knives, metal blades, bike tire spokes, sharp fingernails, and razors to administer the practice, inflicting pain on children.

The practice, according to Kinga Africa Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Francis Muthama has led to several infant deaths in the Kamba region, thus a dire need for public awareness. Speaking during the workshop, Muthama said the practice has gained a lot of popularity in the region, advising parents to instead visit health centres for the services. 

Mutua emphasized the need for collaborative efforts and a comprehensive campaign to eradicate the issue of HIV/AIDS among children in the region. He highlighted the need for civic education and sensitization on the dangers of dental diseases, particularly for infants and their growth and development as they grow up.

His sentiments were echoed by Veronica Mwangangi, the County Community Health promoter who said Community Health Promoters will be expected to deliver the right message to parents on teething.

Courtesy; KNA