Westmoreland Health Dept. Urges Vigilance

The Westmoreland Health Department is urging residents to remain vigilant against health risks, following the passage of Hurricane Melissa, which left widespread damage and disrupted water supplies across several communities.

Chief Public Health Inspector for Westmoreland, Steve Morris, told JIS News that the department has observed significant public health concerns, particularly the emergence of new springs and surface water in several areas, which could pose serious contamination risks.

“For instance, at the Lindos Hill area, there is a large body of water across the road where people are bathing and washing vehicles. We have to be aware of leptospirosis because we don’t know where these waters are coming from. They may be contaminated,” Mr. Morris said.

He urged residents to avoid bathing or washing in roadside water sources and to treat all water intended for domestic use.

“If you are getting that water for drinking, you need to treat it first. Add chlorine bleach and let it stand for 30 minutes before use. Wading in contaminated water can also lead to leptospirosis, so people must be careful,” he advised.

Mr. Morris also cautioned that the increase in stagnant water could lead to a rise in mosquito breeding sites, heightening the risk of dengue and other vector-borne diseases.

“We are already mobilising our environmental health teams to visit communities, conduct health education, and check food establishments to ensure food safety. We are on the ground doing as much as we can, despite some of our officers being personally affected by the storm,” he said.

Meanwhile, Health Promotion and Education Officer, Gerald Miller, also urged residents to take proactive measures to safeguard their health.

“With the absence of water in many communities, persons are finding whatever means they can to get this essential commodity, but from a public health standpoint, we are advising that all water be treated or boiled before use,” he said.

“Boil the water for at least one minute, allow it to cool, and then cover it before using. Even if you get water from the NWC, if it’s discoloured or has high turbidity, avoid consuming it until it’s safe,” he advised.

Mr. Miller also warned residents to avoid contact with floodwaters, which may be contaminated with animal waste or chemicals.

“People walking or playing in puddles may not realise the danger. These waters could contain the leptospira bacteria from rat urine, putting them at risk for leptospirosis,” he noted.

He further encouraged residents to protect themselves from mosquito bites by wearing long clothing, using repellent, and covering water storage containers to prevent mosquito breeding.

“This is a time when mosquito populations can increase, and we don’t want an outbreak of dengue fever. Persons should also take their prescribed medications and reach out to community health workers if they need assistance,” Mr. Miller added.

Residents in need of assistance or oral rehydration salts are encouraged to contact the Westmoreland Public Health Department at (876) 955-2308 or visit the nearest health centre.