Jamaica is grappling with a surge in leptospirosis cases following the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa, prompting health officials to issue urgent warnings to the public. Dr. Karen Webster Kerr, the National Epidemiologist, has emphasized the need for immediate medical attention for anyone exhibiting symptoms of the disease. Health and Wellness Minister Dr. Christopher Tufton confirmed the outbreak during a press conference on Friday, revealing that confirmed and suspected cases have been reported across eight parishes, including St. Elizabeth, St. Catherine, Hanover, Westmoreland, Trelawny, St. Ann, St. James, and St. Mary. Between October 30 and November 20, there have been nine confirmed cases, 28 suspected cases, and six suspected deaths linked to the illness. Leptospirosis, a bacterial infection transmitted through contact with water or soil contaminated by the urine of infected animals, particularly rodents, presents initially with mild, flu-like symptoms such as high fever, headache, chills, and muscle aches. However, severe cases can lead to kidney or liver failure, internal bleeding, and even death if untreated. Dr. Webster Kerr highlighted that advanced symptoms include coughing up blood, blood in stool, inflammation around the heart, irregular heartbeat, fatigue, shortness of breath, and swollen feet. Treatment often involves intravenous fluids and, in severe cases, intensive care. The outbreak has been exacerbated by stagnant water left in communities after the hurricane, creating ideal conditions for the Leptospira bacteria to thrive. Residents are advised to avoid contact with standing water, especially farmers and those with open wounds. Meanwhile, Dr. Webster Kerr reassured the public that there is no outbreak of gastroenteritis, and influenza cases, while increasing seasonally, remain below epidemic levels. COVID-19 activity is also low, with minimal respiratory virus circulation. Chief Medical Officer Dr. Jacquiline Bisasor-McKenzie reported that 60% to 75% of health centers in the most affected parishes—Trelawny, St. James, Hanover, Westmoreland, and St. Elizabeth—have resumed normal operations.
标签： Jamaica
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Royalton commits to Jamaica as resorts target 2026 reopening
KINGSTON, Jamaica — Royalton Hotels & Resorts has unveiled updated reopening timelines for its Jamaican properties, signaling a phased recovery in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa. Royalton Negril, Royalton Hideaway Negril, and Grand Lido Negril are now slated to welcome guests on August 25, 2026. The reopening dates for Royalton Blue Waters and Royalton Hideaway Blue Waters remain under review, pending further evaluations.
The company has reaffirmed its dedication to Jamaica, emphasizing its ongoing support for employees and local communities. In the immediate aftermath of the hurricane, Royalton implemented a comprehensive relief program, providing clean water, temporary housing, financial aid, and food supplies to affected staff. These welfare initiatives continue to be a cornerstone of the company’s recovery efforts.
To ensure the resorts’ restoration, a dedicated team of over 200 workers will remain on-site throughout the reconstruction phase. Additionally, other managerial and operational staff have been temporarily reassigned to Royalton properties across the Caribbean, safeguarding employment and facilitating ongoing training.
Daniel Lozano, senior vice president of operations, underscored the company’s commitment: ‘Our dedication to Jamaica remains steadfast. We are fully invested in supporting our teams and communities as we navigate the path to complete recovery.’
The announcement highlights Royalton’s resilience and long-term vision, as it balances operational recovery with sustained support for its workforce and the broader Jamaican community.
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Disaster gems for Jamaica from global charity head
Michael Capponi, founder of the Global Empowerment Mission (GEM), has called on the Jamaican Government to ensure that disaster relief efforts address not only immediate needs but also the nation’s long-term identity, stability, and economic future. His remarks come in response to the Government’s plan to deploy pre-built container homes as a temporary housing solution for victims of Hurricane Melissa. Capponi, a seasoned humanitarian with decades of disaster-response experience, warned that short-term solutions could inadvertently harm Jamaica’s cultural authenticity and tourism-driven economy. He emphasized that Jamaica’s global identity as a premier tourism destination could be compromised by the introduction of foreign, prefabricated structures. Drawing parallels to the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina in the United States, Capponi highlighted the long-term complications of temporary housing solutions, such as structural issues and environmental hazards. GEM, a 14-year-old charity, has already dispatched significant aid to Jamaica, including 18 container loads and 18 plane loads of relief supplies, supported by over 1,300 volunteers at a cost exceeding $4.3 million. Capponi’s leadership has transformed GEM into a globally recognized organization that prioritizes swift, strategic, and sustainable aid. His three-phase model—disaster relief, stabilization, and sustainable development—has enabled GEM to respond to over 370 disasters worldwide, delivering more than $620 million in aid. Capponi’s unique approach bridges private enterprise and public service, advocating for local empowerment and long-term solutions over short-term fixes.
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Greenwood ‘paid dearly’ for sex assault allegations, says De Zerbi
Marseille’s head coach, Roberto De Zerbi, has publicly defended Mason Greenwood, stating that the forward has ‘paid dearly’ for the sexual assault allegations that once derailed his career. Greenwood is set to face English opposition for the first time since the controversy as Marseille prepares to host Newcastle United in the Champions League on Tuesday. The 24-year-old, who joined Marseille in July 2024 after a loan spell at Getafe, has been a key player for the French club, scoring 33 goals, including 11 this season. De Zerbi emphasized that Greenwood has found a supportive environment in Marseille, describing him as a ‘good lad’ who has overcome significant personal challenges. Despite the controversy, Greenwood’s on-field performance has been commendable, with De Zerbi praising his development into a ‘complete player.’ However, England manager Thomas Tuchel has indicated that Greenwood is not currently in his plans for the national team. Meanwhile, Greenwood’s teammate Angel Gomes noted that their conversations focus more on casual topics like video games rather than Greenwood’s aspirations for an international recall. Marseille, currently struggling in the Champions League with just three points from four matches, will rely on Greenwood’s form to improve their standing in the competition.
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Manchester High make winning start to ISSA basketball title defence
MANCHESTER, Jamaica — Manchester High, the double defending champions, kicked off their campaign in the Inter-Secondary Schools Sports Association (ISSA) Rural Area Basketball competition with a commanding performance on Monday. The team secured victories in both the Under-16 and Under-19 categories against Munro College at their home court in Manchester. The competition, which had been delayed by nearly a month due to Hurricane Melissa in late October, saw Manchester High dominate with a 95-18 win in the Under-19 game, led by Shawn Bogle’s 20 points. Earlier, they triumphed 110-13 in the Under-16 game, with Jaquain Palmer scoring a game-high 28 points. Meanwhile, St Elizabeth Technical High School (STETHS) also enjoyed a double victory over Christiana High in Zone A, winning 21-8 in the junior game and 69-17 in the seniors. In other matches, Belair High defeated Old Harbour High 56-30 in the Under-19 game, after Old Harbour had claimed a 45-20 win in the Under-16 category. The competition resumes with high expectations for continued thrilling performances.
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Brazil ‘very concerned’ about US naval build-up near Venezuela
Johannesburg, South Africa (AFP) – Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva voiced deep concern on Sunday regarding the United States’ escalating military presence near Venezuela, emphasizing the potential for conflict. Speaking to reporters in Johannesburg following the G20 summit, Lula revealed his intention to address the issue directly with US President Donald Trump. “I am very troubled by the military assets the United States has deployed in the Caribbean Sea. This situation worries me, and I plan to discuss it with President Trump,” Lula stated. He further cautioned against the dangers of military escalation, drawing parallels to the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. “Once a shot is fired, it becomes difficult to predict the outcome,” he warned. The US has recently positioned an aircraft carrier strike group, additional naval warships, and stealth aircraft in the vicinity of Venezuela. On Friday, the US issued a warning to civilian aircraft operating in Venezuelan airspace, urging them to “exercise caution.” Since September, US forces have targeted over 20 vessels in the Caribbean Sea and eastern Pacific, resulting in more than 80 fatalities. US officials claim these operations were aimed at drug traffickers but have yet to provide substantiating evidence. The Trump administration has accused Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro of leading a “terrorist” drug cartel and has not dismissed the possibility of deploying US troops. Lula, highlighting Brazil’s shared border with Venezuela, stressed the importance of seeking a diplomatic resolution before tensions escalate further. Notably, Trump opted not to attend the G20 summit in South Africa, citing a misalignment between the summit’s focus on global trade and climate change and US policies.
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Sorrel for Christmas?
Jamaica’s cherished Christmas tradition of enjoying sorrel, a deep red, gingery drink made from the Roselle plant, faces significant challenges this year due to the devastating impact of Hurricane Melissa. Farmers in the northeastern parish of St Mary report severe damage to sorrel crops, with yields expected to plummet to just 10% of normal levels. The Category 5 storm, coupled with pre-existing leaf diseases and relentless rainfall, has left many fields flattened and crops ruined. Dave Evans, a sorrel farmer from Richmond, shared that his usual harvest of 9,000 pounds has been drastically reduced, forcing him to declare a loss for the season. Comisha Campbell-Clunis, another farmer, saw her 3,500 sorrel plants dwindle to just 1,500 survivors. The scarcity is expected to drive prices up to $1,500 per pound, a steep increase from the usual $500. Veteran farmer Junior Williams, who cultivates a hardy variety of sorrel, emphasized the resilience of the crop but acknowledged that even his fields suffered damage. Across the sector, farmers are struggling to salvage what remains, but the festive season may see many Jamaican tables without the traditional sorrel drink. The Minister of Agriculture, Floyd Green, has yet to comment on the situation, leaving farmers and consumers alike uncertain about the availability of this holiday staple.
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G20 grapples with splintering world order
JOHANNESBURG, South Africa (AFP)—As the G20 summit concluded in South Africa on Sunday, leaders emphasized the importance of multilateralism, even as they grappled with a rapidly evolving global landscape marked by unilateral U.S. policies, escalating conflicts, and intensifying geopolitical rivalries. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney remarked, ‘Too many nations are retreating into protectionist blocs or geopolitical battlegrounds. What we’re witnessing is not a transition but a rupture.’ The summit, notably boycotted by the United States, sparked intense discussions on the future of the G20 in an increasingly fragmented world. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, in his closing remarks, described the gathering as ‘crucial,’ noting the growing global demand for progress on pressing issues. Despite the challenges to international cooperation, the G20 leaders reaffirmed their commitment to multilateralism in a joint declaration, asserting that shared goals outweigh differences. Attendees included representatives from Europe, China, India, Japan, Turkey, Brazil, and Australia, marking the first G20 summit hosted in Africa. The leaders acknowledged the backdrop of rising geopolitical tensions, economic instability, and inequality. French President Emmanuel Macron warned that the G20 might be nearing the end of an era, suggesting a refocus on strategic economic issues. The G20, established after the 1997-1998 Asian financial crisis, was initially designed to enhance global economic stability. However, the U.S. absence, attributed to policy disagreements with South Africa, cast a shadow over the event. Emerging economies and the Global South were highlighted as increasingly pivotal within the G20 framework. Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva asserted that multilateralism remains robust, despite efforts to undermine it. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz expressed disappointment over the U.S. decision to skip the summit but noted the emergence of new global alliances.
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Golovkin elected president of World Boxing
PARIS, France (AFP)—In a significant development for the sport, former middleweight champion Gennady Golovkin has been elected as the president of World Boxing, the organization tasked with overseeing boxing at the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. The 43-year-old Kazakh boxer, a two-time unified world middleweight champion and Olympic silver medalist, was unanimously chosen during the annual congress in Rome, where he stood as the sole candidate. Golovkin succeeds Dutchman Boris van der Vorst, who opted not to seek re-election after his 2023 appointment. In his inaugural statement, Golovkin emphasized his commitment to placing athletes at the core of decision-making and restoring trust in Olympic boxing. ‘Starting today, athletes will be at the heart of every decision we make,’ he declared. ‘On the road to LA28, we will restore trust in Olympic boxing to secure our place in Brisbane (host of the 2032 Olympics) beyond. Now it’s time to move forward as one united boxing family.’ Golovkin’s election comes amid a turbulent period for the sport, following the International Olympic Committee’s (IOC) decision to sever ties with the International Boxing Association (IBA) due to governance and ethical concerns. The IOC managed boxing at the Tokyo and Paris Games while deliberating the sport’s Olympic future. World Boxing, established in 2023, has now taken the reins, with Golovkin at the helm. His appointment follows the recent election of Manny Pacquiao, another boxing legend, as vice president of the IBA, highlighting the sport’s ongoing efforts to navigate its challenges and secure its Olympic legacy.
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Caribbean legislators in New York rally community for Jamaica relief
In a remarkable demonstration of solidarity and Caribbean pride, Caribbean legislators in New York have mobilized their community to provide essential relief to Jamaica following the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa. Spearheading the initiative were Jaime Williams, Chairwoman of New York State’s emergency response and disaster preparedness, and Monique Chandler-Waterman, Co-Chair of the Caribbean American Delegation. Both assembly members organized an “urgent packing day” at TriniJam BK, a Caribbean restaurant in Brooklyn, to gather supplies for Jamaica’s recovery efforts. Calvin Sennon, co-owner of TriniJam BK, described the scene as volunteers transformed the restaurant into a hub of compassion, with tables overflowing with essential items such as hygiene kits, canned goods, and flashlights. Families, students, and local organizations worked tirelessly, assembling critical supplies destined for Jamaican relief centers. Williams, a seasoned leader in disaster recovery, emphasized the urgency of the situation, praising the Caribbean Diaspora and Brooklyn community for their swift response. Chandler-Waterman echoed this sentiment, highlighting the resilience and solidarity of the Caribbean community. The initiative also saw participation from local officials, non-profits, and faith leaders, reflecting the deep cultural and familial ties that unite New York’s Caribbean population. As shipments began their journey to Jamaica, Williams and Chandler-Waterman pledged continued support in the weeks ahead, while also acknowledging the ongoing recovery needs of other Caribbean islands affected by previous hurricanes.