St Catherine public health official warns residents amid leptospirosis cases

Deputy Public Health Inspector for St. Catherine, Denese Douglas, says public health personnel have heightened surveillance against leptospirosis and are urging residents to exercise caution.

Douglas told today’s monthly meeting of the St. Catherine Municipal Corporation that deaths and confirmed cases have been recorded in the parish.

"There are 12 confirmed cases in the parish since November. Until recently, the cases, so far, include 11 men and one woman. Of this number, there have been two deaths, so it is serious," Douglas said.

Jamaica is currently experiencing an outbreak of leptospirosis.

Douglas told the meeting that the South East Regional Health Authority is still operating in emergency mode.

"We continue to conduct visits and implement vector control to minimize the problem, but we must warn people to keep away from stagnant water and run-off that are commonly used for washing and other activities," Douglas said.

The councillors were advised to educate their divisions about leptospirosis and how to protect themselves.

Meanwhile, members of the National Solid Waste Management Agency, who were present at the meeting, committed to removing refuse throughout the township to minimise rodent infestation.

- Rasbert Turner

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