In Jamaica, the infectious and extremely dangerous leptospirosis began to surge rapidly after the violent storm of the century - "Melissa" - that swept in at the end of October. According to Reuters, the epidemiological situation following the natural disaster is causing serious concern in the country.
According to official data, six people have died from this disease so far. The powerful Category 5 hurricane "Melissa" hit an island in the Caribbean Sea with tremendous force on October 28. Heavy rains caused water to spread up to 76 centimeters, causing large-scale floods and landslides. Experts emphasize that this very contaminated water created ideal conditions for the spread of infection in the regions.
Jamaican Health Minister Christopher Tufton reported on November 21, stating that nine confirmed cases and another 28 suspected cases were recorded between October 30 and November 20. According to the minister, the situation is becoming increasingly serious.
Leptospirosis is transmitted through water or soil contaminated with the urine of mammals, mainly rodents. The infection can enter the human body through wounds on the skin and through the mucous membranes of the eyes, mouth, and nose.
Initially, the disease begins with flu-like symptoms - fever, muscle pain, and headache. However, over time, it can become severe, leading to kidney failure, liver damage, meningitis, or internal bleeding.
"The epidemic started right after the storm. Direct contact with contaminated water and soil in flooded areas has accelerated the spread of the infection," Tufton said at a press conference.
Which categories are at high risk?
The Ministry identified the following segments of the population as the highest risk group:
• population living in flooded areas;
• dekhkans and farmers;
• personnel engaged in cleaning and rescue operations;
• emergency services;
• volunteers eliminating the consequences of the disaster.
According to estimates by the Jamaican government, Hurricane Melissa caused approximately $10 billion in economic damage to the country. These funds are mainly related to the damage caused to the tourism and agricultural sectors, with nearly 200,000 buildings being damaged to varying degrees.
It is not yet known to what extent the epidemic will spread, but the government has focused all its efforts on containing the danger and protecting people's health.
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