Leptospirosis cases

The Ministry of Health confirmed three new cases in Sanma Province from 4th to the 23rd of May.

The cases have been reported to the National Surveillance Unit. 

The total number of cases of leptospirosis now stands at 33.

There are 21 cases in Sanma Province, 8 in Shefa Province, 1 in Torba, 1 in Tafea and 1 in Penama.

There are no deaths from leptospirosis.

Of these, 18 are in Sanma province and eight in Shefa Province.

Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease that affects both humans and animals.

The disease is transmitted to humans mainly through contact of broken skin with water or soil contaminated with the urine of infected animals.

Infections may occur in people exposed to flood water, puddles and waterfalls.

Photo file 

Fiji Medical Association president, Dr Basharat Munshi issued the statement following reports of Leptospirosis in the Western Division.

“It’s an occupation hazard for farmers, dairy workers and abattoir workers so if you’re a farmer, please wear gumboots and gloves where necessary and plus if you have any cuts and scratches to cover them up when you go out into the fields.”

Dr. Munshi said climate-sensitive diseases such as Leptospirosis, dengue and typhoid were prevalent during periods of heavy rain and flooding.

Five cases are reported in SANMA Province and there are one each in the provinces of SHEFA, TORBA and TAFEA.

The cases were confirmed after 81 rapid diagnostic tests were done at the Northern District Hospital and the Vila Central Hospital (VCH) reports Vanuatu Daily Post.

Areas presented with more cases in Santo were Chapuis and Pump Station. Throughout Vanuatu, results show a higher incidence of cases in males than female.