The Ministry of Health and Medical Services has reiterated the need for us to be mindful of the weather and the consequences on our health.

It stated in its public advisory update on Monday, that the recent weather has resulted in conditions conducive to outbreaks of leptospirosis, typhoid, and dengue fever, which are climate-sensitive diseases endemic to Fiji.

Weather reports predicting increasing rainfall over the next few days, it said, should be noted.

“And as such the medical advice we provide needs to be followed, while we continue to mount our public health and clinical response,” it stated.

There was an increase in leptospirosis cases, hospitalisations, and deaths following similar weather events, it noted.

In late February, it stated, Rakiraki Subdivision reported 35 admissions of LTDD cases of which 13 cases were severe enough to warrant transfer to Lautoka Hospital.

There were four deaths due to leptospirosis and one death due to typhoid.

It raised an important issue as well. Poor health-seeking behaviour, it said, was a significant factor.

This will no doubt be a major concern as well.

Interestingly, while all individuals are susceptible to the infection, cases remain predominantly higher in ages 10-39-years, more in males than females, and in people of the i-Taukei ethnicity.

We have said this before, the leptospirosis bacteria was spread to humans through the urine of infected animals, such as cows, pigs, rats, and dogs.

This is why we should protect ourselves well.

We should understand the risks, be aware of symptoms, know the danger areas and stay safe.

That will mean wearing good footwear when outdoors, avoiding floodwaters and washing up every time we are exposed to muddy waters.

Let’s keep our children away from floodwaters.

Remember they love to play in water!

Remember early treatment can also decrease the severity and duration of the disease.

This is why it is important that you seek medical care if you have recently had contact with floodwaters, mud, or animals, and develop a fever, muscle pain, or a headache.

You may also have red eyes, loss of appetite, nausea/vomiting, dizziness, or feel weak.

Let’s also remind ourselves that leptospirosis can be treated with appropriate antibiotic medications and if treatment is sought early.

We have been warned.

The challenge for us all now is to be vigilant.

We must be aware, and we must want to protect ourselves and our loved ones.

That initiative must come from within.

Otherwise we will continue to see a rise in the rate of infections.

So stay well and stay safe Fiji!