2 more deaths due to leptospirosis

Two more people have died due to leptospirosis.

The Permanent Secretary for Health, Dr. James Fong says a 27-year-old died in the Lautoka Hospital on March 10th, and another 27-year-old died in Wainibokasi on March 2nd.

There have been a total of 27 deaths from leptospirosis this year, with 19 in the Western Division, 3 in the Central Division, and 5 in the North.

There have been 1,230 lab-confirmed cases of leptospirosis this year, with 240 new cases.

Dr. Fong says outbreaks are ongoing in all four divisions.

The most admissions last week were in Lautoka and Rakiraki hospitals, followed by Nadroga/Navosa and Nadi, Ba, and Tavua. A downward trend of admissions has been noted in all subdivisions.

Dr. Fong says cases remain predominantly in the 10-39-year-old age group, with more in males than females.

The leptospirosis bacteria is spread to humans through the urine of infected animals, such as cows, pigs, rats, and dogs.

Important prevention measures include wearing full covered footwear at all times when going outdoors, avoiding walking or swimming in flooded waters, using clean fresh water to wash up after exposure to muddy waters, and keeping all food and drinks covered and away from rats. Cover cuts and wounds well, and use protective equipment, especially footwear when in flooded and/or muddy areas.

Dr. Fong adds people should seek medical care if they have recently had contact with floodwaters, mud, or animals, and develop fever, muscle pain, headache. You may also have red eyes, loss of appetite, nausea/vomiting, dizziness, or feel weak.