Communal sanitation systems proposed to support hurricane-affected residents in St James
Published:Wednesday | November 19, 2025 | 3:14 PM
Acting Chief Public Health Inspector for St James, Sherika Lewis, is recommending the establishment of communal sanitation systems for residents affected by Hurricane Melissa.
“We are aware that there are some communities that predominantly have pit latrines [and that others have no facilities at all]. At this time, it is going to be a challenge, and we are concerned about [the potential] transmission of diseases,” she stated.
Lewis said, given the loss of housing and damage to existing facilities, the construction of communal sanitation systems is recommended to provide residents with safe and accessible options, adding that “in areas where it is not possible to [establish] pit latrines, [the use of] portable toilets [is also advised].”
She was speaking during the recent monthly meeting of the St James Municipal Corporation in Montego Bay.
Turning to vector control data for October, Lewis reported that of 15,808 premises inspected, approximately 2,600 were found positive for mosquito breeding.
“Hence, the Aedes index is now at 16.9 percent, reflecting an increase of five percent when compared to September,” she stated.
Explaining the rise, Lewis noted: “We are seeing an increase in the number of containers that persons are using to store water. So, we want to be vigilant, and we want to continue our health education.”
She urged the support of councillors, stating that, “we want them to assist us in spreading the message that persons should cover their water containers. For containers not used for drinking, the surrounding area should be oiled to prevent mosquito larvae from continuing their life cycle.”
Lewis shared that during October, health teams visited 253 communities. Fogging was carried out in 15 communities and eight schools.
Despite the challenges created by Hurricane Melissa, she underscored that the St James Public Health Services remains committed to safeguarding the health of the parish.
“It is unfortunate what really hit our lovely parish. However, for public health interventions, we are prepared, we are geared up, and we are in the process of ensuring that public health is attained and maintained,” Lewis stated.
- JIS News
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