Puerto Rico’s Department of Health reported this Monday that at least three people died on the island after Hurricane Fiona, and that 160 leptospirosis warnings were issued as a result of the severe flooding that followed the storm. The flooding created conditions that can boost the transmission of the bacteria responsible for leptospirosis, prompting health officials to issue heightened alerts and increase surveillance across affected communities. According to officials, the situation required close monitoring as crews assessed water quality and potential contamination in floodwaters and areas that were hardest hit by the rainfall and wind from Fiona. These warnings reflect a precautionary approach aimed at preventing exposure and guiding residents on protective measures (Puerto Rico Department of Health).
One of the fatalities is a 76-year-old man from the Arecibo area in the north of the island, and this death has been confirmed. A second individual, a 77-year-old man from Ponce in the southern region, is considered probable, while a third death from Ponce is classified as a suspect, involving an 85-year-old man. Regarding leptospirosis cases, the latest report from the Ministry of Health indicates four confirmed cases, twenty probable cases, eighty-four suspected cases, and fifty-two cases still under investigation. The Weekly Leptospirosis Surveillance Report shows that the majority of reported cases have involved male patients, accounting for about 78 percent, with the average age around 41 years. These figures underscore the scale of the public health challenge posed by the flood-related risk of leptospirosis and the importance of prompt medical attention for symptoms following exposure in floodwaters or contaminated environments (Weekly Leptospirosis Surveillance Report, Health Authority Statements).
Health Director Carlos Mellado urged residents to act quickly and responsibly to reduce the risk of infection. He advised avoiding contact with water, soil, or food that might be contaminated by the urine or other secretions of animals known to carry the bacteria. The guidance emphasizes the need for protective practices such as avoiding wading through floodwaters, wearing appropriate footwear, washing hands thoroughly after any potential exposure, and ensuring that food and drinking water are protected from contamination. Public health officials also stress the importance of seeking medical care promptly if fever, headache, muscle aches, red eyes, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, jaundice, rash, or cough appear after possible exposure in affected areas. These steps are part of a broader strategy to minimize transmission and protect vulnerable populations during flood response operations (Puerto Rico Department of Health; Health Authority Guidance).
Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease that can severely affect the kidneys and liver and may lead to meningitis, respiratory distress, and bleeding in serious cases. The early signs commonly include fever, headache, muscle pains, red eyes, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and jaundice, with a rash and cough sometimes appearing as the illness progresses. Given the current situation, medical professionals emphasize vigilance for these symptoms in people who have lived through or encountered flood conditions, especially those with underlying health issues. Timely diagnosis and antibiotic treatment are crucial in reducing the risk of complications. Health authorities continue to provide updates as more information becomes available and as the situation evolves in response to Fiona’s impact (Medical guidance on leptospirosis; Public health advisories).
Category 1 hurricane Fiona struck Puerto Rico on September 18, leaving behind extensive damage and disruption. The scale and severity of the destruction prompted the federal government to declare a major disaster, triggering relief efforts and funding to support recovery, emergency services, housing, and public health interventions across the island. As responders work to restore essential services, residents are reminded to follow official guidance, stay informed about weather advisories, and participate in community health and safety programs designed to mitigate the short- and long-term health risks posed by the hurricane and its aftermath (Federal disaster declarations and Puerto Rico Department of Health updates).