KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Scientific Research Council (SRC) is urging Jamaicans to exercise heightened caution, as the country faces increased risks of gastroenteritis and other food and water-borne illnesses, following the passage of Hurricane Melissa.

Team leader for the SRC’s analytical services department, Ray-Anne Shaw Phillips, said Jamaicans should be on alert for symptoms associated with the illness.

These typically include vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach cramping or severe dehydration.

“If you are experiencing any of these symptoms [for prolonged periods], then it is recommended that you visit the nearest medical professional as soon as possible,” she said.

With growing concerns surrounding the increase of leptospirosis across several parishes, Shaw Phillips cautioned that households must be vigilant about what they eat and drink, noting that flood water entering homes may have contaminated kitchen surfaces, appliances, cupboards and storage containers.

She explained that floodwaters contain a dangerous mixture of pesticides, chemicals, oil, human waste, animal waste and decaying matter, which makes it a perfect source for microbial growth and contamination.

“If food was at all exposed to floodwater, you must discard it. Even though the item may have been in a plastic or a cardboard container, the water may have been absorbed through these materials and entered the food. The safest thing to do is to discard it,” she stressed.

To reduce the risks of contracting any of these illnesses, the team leader is encouraging the public to treat water before consumption by boiling it or using other appropriate disinfectants.

They may also engage the accredited services of the SRC for the testing of both food and water supplies, including checks for E. coli, coliforms, turbidity, pH levels and other indicators of contamination.

Meanwhile, as Jamaica continues to deal with the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa and engage in rebuilding efforts, Shaw Phillips affirmed the SRC’s commitment to support residents, businesses and community groups that need to verify the safety of their food and water supplies.

Individuals in need of food or water testing services may contact the council via telephone at (876) 927-1771, or emailing edoffice@src.gov.jm.

They may also reach out via social media or through the SRC’s website at https://www.src.gov.jm to begin the conversation.

“After a hurricane, there is always increased public health risk. We sympathise and empathise with all who have been affected. I just want to encourage persons, that as we continue to pick up the pieces, to ensure that we increase our vigilance and not making matters worse by consuming things that are contaminated,” she said.

— JIS