Health Ministry detects more Leptospirosis cases 

The Ministry of Health and Medical Services has up scaled surveillance with a rise in leptospirosis cases in the country.

As of 30^th April, the national stats show cases of Leptospirosis have reached 166, compared to the 66 cases reported in early April this year.

The Health Ministry has been working tirelessly to address the increase in cases and therefore advises those who may be affected to seek medical assistance from their health care provider immediately.

The illness lasts from a few days to 3 weeks or longer and without treatment, recovery may take several months.

The disease is often difficult to diagnose clinically; laboratory support is required. Once the diagnosis has been made, treatment with appropriate antibiotics should be initiated as early as possible. Untreated cases can progress to a more severe and potentially fatal stage, therefore prevention is very important. Preventative measures include:

• Controlling the infection source (e.g. rodent control, animal vaccination);
• Interrupting the transmission route (e.g. wearing protective clothing, refrain from contact with infected animals and from swimming in contaminated water, provide clean drinking-water); or
• Preventing infection or disease in the human host (e.g. vaccination, antibiotic prophylaxis, information to doctors, veterinarians, risk groups and the general population).

The risk of acquiring leptospirosis can be greatly reduced by not swimming or wading in water that might be contaminated with animal urine, or eliminating contact with potentially infected animals.

The Minister for Health and Medical Services Mr Jone Usamate has called on the people to take extra care and protect themselves from contracting such diseases.

“We have issued advisories on the emergence of diseases within the current conditions. We urge people to be careful and adhere to the advice, and keep themselves safe” Mr Usamate said.

Meanwhile, as Fiji has been experiencing significant flooding around the country, people should remain indoors for protection.

Last Updated on 8 years by Publishing Team