In Kingston, an alarming health crisis has emerged in the wake of Hurricane Melissa’s fury, as Jamaica faces an outbreak of leptospirosis, a bacterial disease believed to be responsible for six fatalities. The devastating storm, which struck with Category 5 intensity on October 28, unleashed relentless rainfall, leading to severe flooding and landslides across the Caribbean island.

With approximately 30 inches (76 cm) of rain inundating the region, the aftermath has left behind stagnant water, a perfect breeding ground for the disease, according to health officials. The dire situation prompted Health Minister Christopher Tufton to address the nation on Friday, revealing that nine cases of leptospirosis have been confirmed from October 30 to November 20, alongside 28 additional suspected cases.

Leptospirosis is a disease that spreads through water or soil tainted by the urine of infected animals, like rodents, posing a significant health threat in the affected areas. As authorities grapple with this burgeoning outbreak, the need for prompt action and public awareness becomes increasingly critical to prevent further casualties.

Health Minister Christopher Tufton announced on Friday that nine cases were confirmed between Oct. 30 and Nov. 20, with 28 additional suspected cases.

Leptospirosis is spread through water or soil contaminated by the urine of infected animals, such as rodents.

The infection can enter the human body through cuts in the skin or through the eyes, nose and mouth.

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While initial symptoms such as fever, headache and muscle aches can be mistaken for the flu, the disease can progress to a severe and potentially fatal form.

It can cause kidney failure, liver damage, meningitis and severe internal bleeding.

“The outbreak follows the passage of the storm which has created conditions that have increased the risk of exposure to contaminated water and soil,” Tufton said at a press conference.

He warned that anyone coming into contact with floodwaters could be at risk, including “farmers, persons engaged in cleanup activities, emergency responders and others navigating flood areas.”

Hurricane Melissa left an estimated $10 billion in damages, according to Jamaican officials, hobbling the nation’s key tourism and agriculture sectors and damaging nearly 200,000 buildings.