Lepto cases reporting down says Health Ministry
THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH, Wellness and the Environment (MOHWE), has revealed that no cases of leptospirosis were reported for the period October 10 to November 10, 2025.
This follows an earlier release issued on October 15, 2025 that advised the public to take precautionary measures against leptospirosis as they were seeing an increase in the number of cases.
The October 15 release noted that in 2024, between January and October 10, nine cases of leptospirosis were recorded, but during the same period in 2025, 21 cases were reported, and five deaths confirmed.
The Ministry said in the subsequent press release this week that while no cases of leptospirosis were reported for the period October 10 to November 10, they are encouraging people to engage in the safe disposal of garbage, and adopt other measures to reduce the rodent population.
Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection caused by Leptospira bacteria. It spreads mainly through water, soil, or food contaminated with urine from infected animals—commonly rats, dogs, livestock, and other wild animals. People can get it by walking barefoot in contaminated water, handling infected animals, or drinking unsafe water.
Common symptoms include fever, chills, headache, muscle pain (especially in the calves), vomiting, Diarrhoea, and sometimes red eyes or rash. In severe cases, it can cause kidney failure, liver damage (jaundice), meningitis, or breathing problems.
Leptospirosis is treatable with antibiotics, especially when diagnosed early. Prevention includes rodent control, proper sanitation, and avoiding contaminated water.
The MOHWE is urging the public to wash all fruits and vegetables thoroughly before using them; practise good food-handling techniques especially when preparing meat, fruits, and vegetables; and wear protective clothing, such as boots and gloves, when working outdoors or handling animals.
Additional measures include keeping food and drinking water away from areas where rodents or animals may urinate; storing food properly; and disposing of garbage promptly to discourage rodent activity.
Individuals at higher risk such as farmers, veterinarians, animal handlers, butchers, and sanitation or sewage workers should take extra precautions. These include washing hands frequently with soap and running water; using appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) including gloves, boots, and eye protection; and cleaning and disinfecting surfaces and equipment regularly.
Other recommended actions include vaccinating pets against leptospirosis; isolating any sick animals; and implementing measures to control rodents in and around work areas.
“Vincentians are urged to remain vigilant, particularly during this rainy season, and to take preventive actions to protect themselves, their families, and their communities,” the Ministry of Health advises.
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