By Mewati Sitaram
Jamaica’s Minister of Health and Wellness Dr Christopher Tufton has assured international visitors that Jamaica remains safe for travel despite the ongoing leptospirosis outbreak. He said current assessments indicate no significant threat to tourists, including those staying in 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 added that the government continues to maintain strict oversight of all tourism-related establishments, guided 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,” he said.
According to the minister, the Ministry of Health, Regional Health Authorities and parish health departments will continue close coordination with tourism stakeholders to ensure that visitors remain safe and have access to medical services throughout their stay.
The public has been reminded that leptospirosis is preventable, treatable and survivable when detected early. Citizens are urged to wear protective gear during clean-up operations, avoid floodwater, secure food and water supplies and maintain clean surroundings.
Tufton also confirmed that no other communicable diseases are currently a cause for concern, noting that dengue and influenza levels remain below the usual threshold for this time of year.
Editor in Chief : Mewati SItaram
