Kimotho, Stephen GichuhiMiller, Ann NevilleNgure, Peter Kamau2024-05-072024-05-072015-12-20Stephen Kimotho, Ann Neville Miller & Peter Ngure (2015) Managing communication surrounding tungiasis stigma in Kenya, Communicatio, 41:4, 523-542, DOI: 10.1080/02500167.2015.11006460250-0167 (Print)1753-5379 (Online)https://repository.daystar.ac.ke/handle/123456789/4506Tungiasis is a neglected parasitic skin disease widespread in resourcepoor communities in sub-Saharan Africa, South America and the Caribbean. Stigmatisation of tungiasis sufferers has been identified as a key reason why tungiasis frequently progresses untreated in many parts of the world, however little research has investigated the specifics of tungiasis stigma or the communication strategies sufferers use to manage stigmatization. This article reports results of focus group and in-depth interviews regarding strategies used to manage tungiasis stigma from the perspective of persons living with tungiasis in Murang’a County, Kenya. Most frequently mentioned were withdrawal tactics. Participants also engaged in refutation strategies to deny responsibility for their condition. Implications for stigma management communication theory are discussed.enHealth communicationKenyaNeglected tropical diseasesStigmaStigma management communicationTungiasisArticle