Jamaica records 28 suspected cases of leptospirosis after Hurricane Melissa By Bruna
2 min read
 |
Jamaica faces an outbreak of leptospirosis following the passage of category 5 hurricane Melissa, which hit the country at the end of October.
Ministério of Saúde confirmed 28 suspected cases of the bacterial disease between October 30 and November 20, a period that coincides with the heavy rains and floods left by the meteorological phenomenon.
The Leptospira bacteria proliferates in waters contaminated by animal urine, mainly rats, a condition worsened by the floods that affected several parishes on the island.
Transmission favored by floods
The floods caused by hurricane Melissa created an ideal environment for the spread of leptospirosis.
Still water mixed with sewage and animal waste facilitates human contact with the bacteria. Autoridades identified a higher incidence in rural and urban areas with prolonged flooding.
Symptoms and severe forms of the disease
The first signs of leptospirosis include high fever, severe headache and muscle pain.
In severe cases, the infection progresses to jaundice, kidney failure and pulmonary hemorrhage. Early diagnosis allows treatment with antibiotics and reduces the risk of fatal complications.
Doctors advise immediate search for health facilities when experiencing symptoms after contact with flood water.
Measures adopted by the Jamaican government
Ministério of Saúde intensified epidemiological surveillance throughout the national territory. Equipes actively search for cases and distribute information material to the population.
Campaigns reinforce guidance on the use of boots and gloves in flooded areas.
- Avoid walking barefoot in places with mud or standing water
- Protect wounds with waterproof dressings
- Maintain cleanliness of reservoirs and water tanks
- Control rodents with traps and proper sanitation
Material losses increase vulnerability
Hurricane Melissa caused an estimated $10 billion in destruction to Jamaican infrastructure.
Around 200,000 buildings suffered damage, leaving families in precarious housing conditions. Falta poor sanitation in many affected areas increases the risk of new infections.
Integrated action against rodents
Rat control gained priority in the regions most affected by the storm. Técnicos apply rodenticides and advise residents on correct food storage.
Partnerships between local government and international organizations expand the reach of actions.
The combination of intense rains and destruction of homes and sewage networks explains the rapid increase in leptospirosis cases registered in recent weeks across the country.
Reinforcement of the hospital network
Public hospitals received specific medicines and expanded beds to treat serious cases. Profissionais underwent training to quickly identify the disease.
Laboratory tests were expedited to confirm or rule out suspicions in the shortest possible time.
