The greater Rakiraki area is now an area of concern for the Ministry of Health and Medical Services, says Permanent Secretary Dr James Fong.

Dr Fong said there was a spike in the number of recorded leptospirosis cases in the area.

On Wednesday night, he revealed that 27 hospital admissions were reported at Rakiraki hospital.

Dr Fong said the floods had affected all areas of the West and the ministry was looking at geographical areas of concern for the purpose of mobilising extra capability to help manage the outbreak and escalate the promotion of preventative measures.

The Western Division had recorded 162 positive cases so far and the increasing hospitalisations and deaths was of a concern.

“There have been 108 leptospirosis admissions in the West this year, an increasing trend, with 17 cases two weeks ago, and 42 admissions last week,” he said.

“Ba hospital has recorded 19 admissions, with 5 in the last week. Nadroga/Navosa subdivision has had 14 hospital admissions, with 5 in the last week.

“Nadi hospital reported 9 admissions, with 5 in the last week and Tavua subdivision with 5 hospital admissions, including 4 in the last week.”

There were 52 admissions at the Lautoka hospital, including transfers from sub divisional hospitals.

“Sadly, 17 people have died in the Western Division this year, with one more death since the last update on February 21.”

So far, there have been 347 cases recorded across the country.

He said the ministry would mobilise support to the Ra subdivision medical team to meet the escalated need of accessing hard-to-reach communities affected by recent floods and designated as red zones.

“Suspected cases will be counselled on ongoing care and the severely ill will be transferred to the hospital to receive the appropriate treatment,” the Permanent Secretary said.

“The team will also be able to review chronic medical cases and update their management. COVID immunisation and booster doses together with the catch-up immunisation campaign for children will run as a parallel program, together with a Social Welfare support programme.”

Dr Fong said early treatment could decrease the severity and duration of the disease.

“Leptospirosis can be treated with appropriate antibiotic medications prescribed by a doctor if treatment is sought early.

“Danger signs for severe leptospirosis include shortness of breath, coughing blood, chest pain, yellow eyes/skin (jaundice), signs of bleeding (including unexplained bruising), decreased or increased urination, and difficulty staying awake.”

He said severe leptospirosis was life-threatening, and anyone with symptoms should be taken to the hospital immediately.

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