The revelation that leptospirosis has claimed the lives of 11 people is a concern. Most of them are iTaukei males between the ages of 16 and 35 years!
However, Health Ministry permanent secretary Dr James Fong said the youngest was a six-year-old and the oldest was 56.
He said 74 cases were recorded since January with 28 admissions in the three divisional hospitals.
There were 19 cases in Lautoka Hospital alone. He has attributed the cases to the recent flooding in parts of Fiji.
The ministry, he said, noted that people were admitted for leptospirosis in hospitals in the West, and the intensive care unit at Lautoka Hospital, after major flooding.
This is why members of the public have been advised to avoid wading or swimming in flood waters, and are encouraged to wear shoes when walking outside, and keep all food and drinks covered and away from rats.
He said leptospirosis was caused by bacteria that infected and caused illness in some animals and humans.
It spreads to humans through the urine of infected animals such as cows, pigs, rats, and dogs.
People could get infected if they were exposed to the urine of infected animals, and this could happen when wading through floodwaters or in mud. People could also get infected by consuming food or drink contaminated by infected animal urine.
People of any age could get leptospirosis, but most often it was found in young adults, and it could cause severe disease and death in some cases.
Some of the symptoms include fever, muscle pain, headache, red eyes, loss of appetite, nausea/vomiting, dizziness, or weakness.
The good thing is that the sickness could be treated with appropriate antibiotic medications prescribed by a doctor if treatment was sought early.
It is encouraging to note that the ministry had convened the Communicable Disease Committee, which would assist the divisional command centres in responding to cases of leptospirosis, typhoid, and dengue fever, including raising awareness amongst the public and providing refresher training for medical professionals in primary care.
In January last year, the ministry announced a leptospirosis outbreak and 10 suspected fatalities.
Let’s consider the fact that we have been warned.
So let’s be vigilant, let’s be aware of symptoms of leptospirosis and let’s be careful if we are out during major floods.
In saying that, let’s also remind ourselves about the fact that we are still battling the COVID-19 pandemic.
We know what we must do.
Let’s adhere to safety advice for our own safety and for the safety and wellbeing of our loved ones. Stay well and stay safe!
