Minister of Health and Wellness, Dr. the Hon. Christopher Tufton, says the hospitals are equipped to deal with confirmed cases of leptospirosis. Addressing a virtual press briefing, on Friday (November 21), he said with an outbreak now confirmed, the public system is able to treat with it, because medicines, especially antibiotics, are in place. “Whether it is the public health...

Prime Minister, Dr. the Most Hon. Andrew Holness, has urged Jamaicans in communities impacted by Hurricane Melissa to remain vigilant against environmental health risks as they resume their daily lives. “We take note of the reports out of the Ministry of Health [and Wellness], where we have seen some cases [of] suspected leptospirosis, and other cases of waterborne diseases, or...

The Minister of Health and Wellness is heightening its vigilance against water-borne, vector-borne and food-related illnesses in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa. Disease surveillance, rapid response capabilities and public health interventions have been enhanced in the parishes most severely impacted by the storm. Portfolio Minister, Hon. Dr. Christopher Tufton, who was addressing a recent meeting with public health workers at...

The Government is intensifying its efforts to support pregnant and lactating women, ensuring they receive the guidance, care, and essential supplies required for safe pregnancies and the healthy development of newborns. State Minister in the Ministry of Health and Wellness, Hon. Krystal Lee, made the disclosure on Tuesday (November 18), during a handover ceremony for WaterStep Bleach Makers at the...

Health Promotion and Education Officer for Westmoreland, Gerald Miller, is urging parents and guardians to heighten their vigilance in securing household chemicals, following the recent passage of Hurricane Melissa. In an interview with JIS News he pointed out that many children are now confined to the home, as some schools remain closed. “With the passing of Hurricane Melissa, which has...

Portland residents who missed clinic appointments due to the passage of Hurricane Melissa are being urged to take immediate steps to reschedule, as parish health services continue recovery efforts following weather-related disruptions. Speaking during the Portland Municipal Corporation’s recent monthly meeting in Port Antonio, Medical Officer of Health for the parish, Dr. Sharon Lewis, reported that the Category Five hurricane...

Acting Chief Public Health Inspector for St. James, Sherika Lewis, is recommending the establishment of communal sanitation systems for residents affected by Hurricane Melissa. “We are aware that there are some communities that predominantly have pit latrines [and that others have no facilities at all]. At this time, it is going to be a challenge, and we are concerned about...