Jamaican health authorities have destroyed over 5,600 kilograms of food following Hurricane Melissa. Health and Wellness Minister Dr. Christopher Tufton reported that inspections of more than 5,000 food-handling establishments led to the destruction of unsafe items to prevent food-borne illnesses.
Widespread power outages have compromised refrigeration, increasing the risk of food spoilage. The ministry stated that surveillance would intensify as teams gain access to communities previously cut off by storm damage.
Minister Tufton confirmed that no unusual disease outbreaks have been detected so far. Public health teams are actively monitoring for water-borne and mosquito-borne diseases, which are common after severe weather. Citizens were advised to practice good hygiene and use safe water.
Widespread power outages have compromised refrigeration, increasing the risk of food spoilage. The ministry stated that surveillance would intensify as teams gain access to communities previously cut off by storm damage.
Minister Tufton confirmed that no unusual disease outbreaks have been detected so far. Public health teams are actively monitoring for water-borne and mosquito-borne diseases, which are common after severe weather. Citizens were advised to practice good hygiene and use safe water.
