Tourists are safe despite leptospirosis outbreak – Tufton
KINGSTON, Jamaica — Minister of Health and Wellness Dr Christopher Tufton has moved to assure tourists visiting Jamaica that they are not at risk despite the current leptospirosis outbreak.
The Minister addressed the concern during a press conference on Thursday, November 27.
Tufton emphasised that while health authorities continue to manage the outbreak, assessments show no significant threat to visitors, including those staying at hotels or visiting certified attractions.
“We have discerned no great risk in terms of the facilities that cater to tourists, whether it’s the hotels, which themselves are doing some rehabilitation as we speak because of the impact of the hurricane … as well as the certified attractions that cater to tours. We work closely with those entities too,” Tufton said.
He further noted that the government maintains strict oversight of tourism-related establishments, supported by established public-health protocols.
“There is a certification process that is required and that is given in conjunction with [the] health [ministry] and so we are not giving an advisory to discourage tourism or visitors. We are just placing all on alert and are particularly focused on the vulnerable communities,” Tufton added.
According to the minister, the Ministry, Regional Health Authorities and parish health departments will continue close collaboration with tourism stakeholders to ensure that visitors remain safe and have access to medical services throughout their stay.
The public is reminded that leptospirosis is preventable, treatable and survivable when detected early. Jamaicans are urged to wear protective gear during clean-up efforts, avoid floodwater, secure food and water supplies and maintain clean surroundings.
Tufton also confirmed that no other communicable diseases are currently of concern, adding, “It is to be noted that there are no other communicable diseases that are of concern at this time, with dengue and influenza remaining below the threshold and below the normal numbers for this time of year.”
