Residents in Westmoreland urged to avoid flooded areas to reduce disease spread

Residents in Westmoreland are being urged to avoid contact with flood waters and to keep children out of inundated areas as health officials seek to reduce the risk of leptospirosis, following recent heavy rainfall across the parish.

Health Promotion and Education Officer for Westmoreland, Gerald Miller, told JIS News that recent persistent downpours have resulted in flooding in several low-lying and flood-prone communities, creating conditions that could expose residents to potentially serious diseases.

Miller expressed concern that despite ongoing public education campaigns, some persons continue to wade through flood waters and allow children to play in them, often viewing the practice as a normal part of life during periods of heavy rainfall.

“We just want to remind the residents of how serious it is and the public health consequences of them contracting leptospirosis by means of walking or playing, and especially children taking off their shoes and walking in these flood waters,” he outlined.

Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease that is commonly spread through water contaminated by the urine of infected animals, particularly rodents. Infection can occur when the bacteria enter the body through cuts or abrasions in the skin or through the eyes, nose or mouth.

Miller noted that the Westmoreland Public Health Department has conducted several interviews and utilised print and social media platforms to educate residents about the dangers associated with exposure to flood waters.

The health official is encouraging residents to recognise that anyone who comes into contact with contaminated flood waters may be at risk of infection.

“We are just appealing to persons that they are to always perceive themselves as susceptible to the contraction of leptospirosis if they are wading or travelling through these flood waters,” Miller said.

He pointed out that harmful bacteria cannot be seen with the naked eye, making it impossible to determine whether flood waters are contaminated. “You and I can’t see them with our naked eyes because they are microscopic and, therefore, care must always be taken when you are contemplating venturing into any flooded areas,” he cautioned.

Miller is also encouraging community leaders, health advocates and other stakeholders to assist in spreading the public health message to prevent an increase in leptospirosis cases.

He highlighted the success of public education efforts undertaken following the passage of Hurricane Melissa and said the public health department remains committed to proactive measures aimed at protecting residents. “We want the people of the parish to remain healthy and not place the hospital under unnecessary stress because of preventable diseases,” Miller said.