Dr Iscar Oluoch, Migori County Executive Committee Member for Health. (Caleb Kingwara, Standard)

Fear has gripped locals following claims of an outbreak of a strange Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) nicknamed "Jakadala".

Some villagers claimed the infection is lethal and can kill someone in one week -if not managed in time.

Health Executive Dr. Iscar Oluoch yesterday said her officers were on the ground after word went round that at least five people were suffering from the disease.

The disease is said to be prevalent around Nyarombo gold mines, Komito mines in Rongo sub-county, Suna and Nyatike.

Dr Oluoch, however, called for sobriety as they carried out investigations.

"Rumours about the new STI gained traction after a patient suffering from penile cancer was admitted to the Migori County Referral Hospital. The patient has had the disease for the past five years," she clarified.