Kingston, Jamaica — Health officials in Jamaica have announced a troubling outbreak of leptospirosis following the catastrophic aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, which made landfall as a Category 5 storm on October 28, 2025. Dr. Christopher Tufton, the nation’s health minister, reported that six deaths are now suspected to be tied to the bacterial infection, while nine cases have been confirmed. Between October 30 and November 20, authorities detected an additional 28 suspected or probable cases.
In addressing the situation, Tufton emphasized the collaborative efforts among public health inspectors, government ministries, and international organizations like the Pan American Health Organization to combat the outbreak. “It’s an all-hands-on-deck approach, and we will pull through this,” he stated.
Leptospirosis is primarily contracted through exposure to water or soil contaminated with the urine of infected animals, particularly rodents. The devastating flooding triggered by Hurricane Melissa significantly increased the risk of exposure as contaminated water inundated various parishes, including St. James, St. Ann, St. Elizabeth, and Hanover.
Dr. Karen Webster Kerr, the national epidemiologist, reported an alarming increase in cases compared to previous years. In the months leading up to the hurricane, Jamaica typically recorded no more than 21 cases each month. However, November alone has already seen 35 reported instances, highlighting the extensive public health emergency created by the storm’s environmental consequences.
St. James parish has emerged as the epicenter of this outbreak, reporting 17 cases and two deaths. Other affected areas include St. Ann with six cases, St. Elizabeth with four cases including one fatality, and Hanover, where three cases and two deaths have been confirmed. Notably, men in their 20s make up a significant portion of those infected, with all fatalities reported to date occurring among males.
Chief Medical Officer Dr. Jacquiline Bisasor-McKenzie raised concerns that the outbreak’s risk has broadened beyond traditional vulnerable demographics. Those involved in recovery operations, including emergency responders and individuals navigating flooded regions, now find themselves at heightened risk. This underscores the urgent need for widespread public education and preventive measures.
In response to the outbreak, Jamaican authorities have initiated a comprehensive approach combining cleanup efforts, the distribution of hygiene supplies, and the launch of public awareness campaigns aimed at curbing the spread of leptospirosis. Over 5,600 PCR tests have been dispatched across various diagnostic sites, and hospitals are stocked with necessary treatments, including antibiotics.
The Pan American Health Organization has provided invaluable support to Jamaica’s public health efforts by offering technical guidance and laboratory assistance to enhance diagnostic capabilities and containment strategies.
Hurricane Melissa inflicted significant damage across Jamaica, with economic losses estimated at $10 billion, significantly disrupting agriculture, tourism, and infrastructure. The storm’s aftermath has heightened health risks, introducing potential outbreaks of diseases such as leptospirosis, tetanus, and dengue fever.
Health officials are urging residents to stay clear of floodwaters, maintain proper hygiene practices, promptly seek medical attention for symptoms such as fever, muscle pain, and jaundice, and engage in community initiatives aimed at reducing rodent populations to improve sanitation conditions.