Jamaica is currently grappling with a significant outbreak of leptospirosis in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, as confirmed by Health Minister Dr. Christopher Tufton. The minister revealed that six suspected deaths have been reported, with nine confirmed cases and 28 suspected or probable cases identified between October 30 and November 20. This surge in cases marks a stark increase compared to the two to 21 cases recorded over the previous 34 months. Dr. Tufton attributed the outbreak to the conditions created by Hurricane Melissa, which heightened the risk of exposure to contaminated water and soil. Leptospirosis, a disease typically transmitted through contact with urine or bodily fluids of infected animals, has now been detected in eight parishes: St Ann, St Mary, St James, Hanover, Westmoreland, St Elizabeth, St Catherine, and Trelawny. The health minister emphasized the urgent need for public awareness and preventive measures to curb the spread of the disease.