Nairobi: Children are the most affected population by ear infections according to an ongoing screening exercise for ear, nose, and throat (ENT) issues in Elgeyo Marakwet County. The Executive Committee Member for Health (CEC), Monica Rotich, confirmed that a significant number of children in the county had been screened and some had already undergone surgery.
According to Kenya News Agency, Rotich stated that 'most of the cases we have encountered are affecting children.' She added that while surgeries for those who were scheduled have already been conducted, about 60 more patients remain in need of surgical intervention. However, not all patients will receive treatment during this round due to limited time and resources.
Rotich assured residents that the county government had engaged an ENT specialist from neighbouring Baringo County to continue handling the cases as they await the arrival of more doctors. Dr. Thomas Pingree, an ENT surgeon from Skyridge Medical Centre, expressed his team's commitment to assisting children and building a long-term relationship with Elgeyo Marakwet's health department. 'We are honoured to be part of this medical team. Helping children is our major goal,' Dr. Pingree said, noting that they have 11 surgeries scheduled for Wednesday and will continue until Friday.
Dr. Pingree further revealed plans to establish a long-term partnership with the county. 'We aim to create a relationship that allows us to make scheduled visits, not just for ENT care but for other medical specialities as well,' he said. 'This will enable us to bring more doctors on board and extend our services beyond the ENT.'
Another ENT specialist, Dr. Thomas Stone, pointed out that screenings have revealed a high number of patients suffering from airway obstructions and chronic infections. 'We have seen many cases of airway obstructions, chronic infections, large tonsillitis, and adenoids, as well as head and neck masses,' said Dr. Stone, adding that 'these are the cases we are prioritising for urgent intervention.'
ENT surgeon from Baringo County, Dr. Kennedy Sargor, emphasized that polyps were the most common condition observed during the screenings at Iten County Referral Hospital. 'This condition obstructs airways, making it difficult for children and individuals to breathe properly, which is why they end up seeking ENT treatment,' Dr. Sargor explained. 'Other cases include ear infections, where patients experience frequent pus discharge, a condition known as otorrhea in medicine.'
Dr. Sargor further highlighted the importance of awareness, stating that many ENT problems stem from negligence or a lack of information. 'Many people assume that snoring is normal, but in most cases, it is not,' he warned, urging parents and individuals to take advantage of these screenings and seek medical attention when they notice such issues.