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Jamaica has declared an outbreak of the bacterial disease leptospirosis linked to six suspected deaths following Hurricane Melissa in late October.
The Category 5 hurricane struck the Caribbean island on October 28, causing devastating flooding and landslides with about 76 cm (30 in) of rain. Officials say the resulting stagnant, contaminated water has created a breeding ground for disease.
Health Minister Christopher Tufton announced on Friday that nine cases were confirmed between October 30 and November 20, with 28 additional suspected cases.
Leptospirosis is spread through water or soil contaminated with the urine of infected animals such as rodents. The infection can enter the human body through cuts in the skin or through the eyes, nose and mouth.
While initial symptoms such as fever, headache and muscle aches may be mistaken for the flu, the illness can become serious and potentially fatal. It can cause kidney failure, liver damage, meningitis, and severe internal bleeding.
“This outbreak occurred after the passage of a hurricane that has created conditions that have increased the risk of exposure to contaminated water and soil,” Tufton said at a news conference.
He warned that anyone exposed to floodwaters could be at risk, including “farmers, people engaged in cleanup activities, emergency responders and others traveling in flood areas.”
According to Jamaican officials, Hurricane Melissa caused an estimated $10 billion in damage, ravaging the country. Tourism and damaged agricultural areas and approximately 200,000 buildings.