Health ministry notes downturn in leptospirosis, urges continued vigilance

WESTERN BUREAU:

Although the Ministry of Health and Wellness (MOHW) reports that leptospirosis cases have begun to decline since mid-November, health minister Dr Christopher Tufton is warning Jamaicans not to become complacent in preventing the spread of the disease following Hurricane Melissa.

Speaking during an online press conference on Thursday, Tufton revealed that 91 suspected leptospirosis cases had been reported up to December 10. Of these, 30 have been confirmed and 12 suspected deaths reported, seven of which have been confirmed. He stressed that at present, there are no other communicable diseases posing major concern.

“The ministry continues to manage the leptospirosis challenge, and I would like to say, with some amount of encouragement, that there seems to have been a peak in mid-November,” he said. “[This] means that we are seeing a tapering off, or a decreasing rate, of suspected or confirmed cases, and, certainly, of deaths,” said Tufton.

Tufton reminded the public that leptospirosis – spread through contact with water contaminated by animal urine – is preventable and treatable when detected early. He urged Jamaicans to wear protective gear during clean-up activities, avoid floodwaters, safeguard food and water, and maintain clean surroundings.

He added that dengue and influenza levels are currently below normal for the year.

The MOHW declared an outbreak of leptospirosis in several parishes on November 21, a little over three weeks after Hurricane Melissa struck on October 28, leading to widespread flooding and contamination. All parishes have since reported cases. St James has recorded the highest number, with 19 suspected or confirmed reports, followed by St Ann and St Catherine, with 13 each. Manchester and St Elizabeth each have nine cases and Trelawny eight.

National epidemiologist Dr Karen Webster-Kerr noted that men account for approximately 84 per cent of all reported cases – 76 men compared to 15 women – and all reported deaths have been males.

“Males have a greater risk of contracting leptospirosis, particularly those in the 20 to 29 age group, and this is probably because they are out cleaning up after the storm,” said Webster-Kerr.

In the meantime, Tufton urged residents to exercise caution with their water, especially in the western region, where the risk remains high.

“As it relates to water safety, the ministry has distributed approximately 2.6 million chlorine tablets to the regional authorities, and they are actively distributing the same in the most affected areas. Already, the western region has distributed more than 400,000 tablets to several affected communities, and we encourage the population to continue to take the necessary precaution as it relates to water,” said Tufton.

christopher.thomas@gleanerjm.com