Beware of leptospirosis, health ministry warns

The Ministry of Health & Wellness is advising members of the public that the risk of being infected with diseases such as leptospirosis increases after the passage of heavy rainfall.

Leptospirosis is a disease that spreads from animals to humans, caused by infection with the bacteria Leptospira. The most common sources of infection are contact with the urine of infected animals, such as rodents, and/or contaminated soil or water.

Outbreaks may occur following periods of heavy rain or flooding.

The public is therefore being advised to do the following:

• Avoid swimming, wading, playing in waters that resulted from flooding.
• Avoid food that could have been contaminated with animal urine.
• Wear protective clothing and footwear if you will be exposed to contaminated water and soil.

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