Jamaica sees drop in leptospirosis cases and deaths, says health minister

Minister of Health and Wellness Dr. the Hon. Christopher Tufton says Jamaica has recorded a reduction in suspected or confirmed cases of leptospirosis, as well as related deaths, describing the development as “encouraging for the country.”

- Advertisement -

Speaking during a virtual press briefing on December 11, Tufton said teams from the Ministry of Health and Wellness, working alongside other agencies involved in national clean-up efforts, have been active in the field and that their work is beginning to show results.

“Our teams are in the fields, along with other agencies involved in clean-up activities, doing the work, and I think this is paying off,” the minister said.

However, he cautioned against complacency, stressing that leptospirosis remains a serious public health concern.

“It is, however, not a reason to be complacent. Remember, leptospirosis is preventable, treatable, and survivable, and if detected early, action must be taken,” Tufton said. He reiterated public advisories to wear protective gear during clean-up activities, avoid floodwaters, secure food and water supplies, and maintain clean surroundings.

Tufton also noted that dengue and influenza viruses are currently below the threshold and below normal levels for this time of year, attributing the trend in part to the Government’s early response to previous outbreaks.

“When we had the dengue outbreak, the Government invested heavily in vehicles, in foggers, in personnel, more than doubling the number of personnel in the field as it relates to vector management,” he said. “I believe that we are seeing the benefits of that in terms of more hands on the ground, more equipment, and the public education programme.”

Leptospirosis is caused by bacteria that thrive in water contaminated by the urine of infected animals, particularly rats, as well as cats and livestock. Health officials continue to urge individuals who come into contact with contaminated water, soil, or mud and experience symptoms to seek medical attention promptly.

According to the minister, more than 75 per cent — or 524 — of identified high-risk communities have already been visited and treated islandwide.

- Advertisement -

Looking ahead, Tufton said the Ministry’s focus from December through January will be to intensify interventions aimed at reducing the danger index in all high-risk communities to below 25, thereby minimizing the risk of mosquito-borne disease transmission.

On water safety, he reported that approximately 2.6 million chlorine tablets have been distributed to the Regional Health Authorities and are being actively shared in the most affected areas.

“Already, the Western Region has distributed more than 400,000 to several affected communities, and we encourage the population to continue to take the necessary precaution as it relates to water,” the minister said.