Health director: Leptospirosis cases on an upward trend
SIBU: The number of leptospirosis cases recorded in Sarawak this year is showing an upward trend.
According to Sarawak Health director Dr Jamilah Hashim, a total of 692 leptospirosis cases were reported between Jan 1 and Oct 27 this year, versus 501 cases recorded in the same period last year.
“It shows a 38.1 per cent increase, or 191 cases,” she said in a statement received here yesterday.
Dr Jamilah said the majority of patients were those involved in the farming, forestry and fishing industry.
Kapit Division had the highest number of leptospirosis cases as at Oct 27 this year, she added.
Four confirmed deaths caused by leptospirosis were recorded for the period ended Oct 27, up from three deaths reported in the same period last year.
Dr Jamilah also reminded the public to be extra careful in view of the current rainy season, and floods had become the norm.
She advised the people to wash their hands properly with clean water and soap, especially during food preparation, before eating, and after visiting the toilet.
Dr Jamilah also advised the people to seek immediate medical attention should they exhibit symptoms of fever, severe headache, muscle pains, chills, redness of the eyes, jaundice, haemorrhages in the skin and mucous membranes, diarrhoea, vomiting or any rash.