Leptospirosis is spreading in Jamaica after the hurricane

In Jamaica, the infectious leptospirosis disease is rapidly spreading following the severe natural disaster – Hurricane “Melissa” – that occurred at the end of October. This was reported by Zamin.uz.

According to Reuters agency, this situation has created a serious epidemiological condition in the country. Official data indicate that six people have died so far due to the disease.

On October 28, the category 5 Hurricane “Melissa” struck the island of Jamaica in the Caribbean Sea with heavy rain and wind. As a result of the rains, water accumulated up to 76 centimeters, causing major floods and landslides.

Experts emphasize that water contamination created favorable conditions for the spread of the infection. According to Jamaica’s Minister of Health, Christopher Tufton, from October 30 to November 20, there have been 9 confirmed and 28 suspected cases of leptospirosis.

He stated that the situation is worsening. Leptospirosis is often transmitted through water or soil contaminated with the urine of rodents.

The infection enters the human body through skin wounds as well as the mucous membranes of the eyes, mouth, and nose. The disease initially presents flu-like symptoms, starting with fever, muscle, and headache.

However, over time, kidney failure, liver damage, and other severe complications may develop. Tufton highlighted that the epidemic spread as a result of flooding and contamination caused by the hurricane.

The population’s direct contact with contaminated water and soil in flooded areas increased the risk of infection. The ministry identified the highest risk groups as residents of flooded areas, farmers and agricultural workers, personnel involved in cleaning and rescue operations, emergency service workers, and volunteers.

According to the Jamaican government’s estimates, Hurricane “Melissa” caused nearly 10 billion dollars in economic damage to the country. This damage mainly affected the tourism and agriculture sectors, with over 200,000 buildings damaged.

So far, the extent of the epidemic’s spread is unknown, but the government is taking all measures to limit the disease’s transmission.