The Ministry of Health and Wellness issued an alert to Jamaicans on July 4 to take the necessary steps to protect themselves from the highly infectious disease leptospirosis.

This disease is particularly common following periods of flooding or a major hurricane such as Beryl, which recently affected the island.

According to the Cleveland Clinic, leptospirosis is an illness caused by the bacteria Leptospira. It can be contracted after getting water or soil contaminated by animal pee (urine) in your nose, your mouth, your eyes, or a break in your skin.

Without medical attention, the disease can result in kidney damage, liver failure, breathing problems, meningitis, or death.

The disease poses a risk to everyone. Here are some tips on how to reduce your risk of becoming infected.

• Avoid contact with animals that may be infected
• Do not swim or wade in water that might be contaminated with animal urine
• Cover your cuts and scratches with waterproof bandages
• Wear protective clothing and shoes when venturing outdoors
• Use personal protective clothing
• Clean and disinfect surfaces
• Vaccinate animals or pets against leptospirosis
• Control rodent population around your home and work
• If you must participate in any water activity such as swimming, do your research on the location for possible leptospirosis infection. Cover scrapes and wounds with water proof bandages.

What are the signs and symptoms?

• High fever
• Muscle aches
• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Rash
• Chills
• Headache