What is the Cost of Leptospirosis treatment in Jamaica? A Cross-sectional Study

Joneshia Bryan-Thomas^1, , Kristen Collins¹, Jotham Omoregie¹ and Annakay Levy¹

¹Department of Medical Technology, Northern Caribbean University, Manchester, Jamaica, West Indies

Cite this paper:
Joneshia Bryan-Thomas, Kristen Collins, Jotham Omoregie and Annakay Levy. What is the Cost of Leptospirosis treatment in Jamaica? A Cross-sectional Study. American Journal of Public Health Research. 2018; 6(3):166-172. doi: 10.12691/ajphr-6-3-7

Abstract

Background: Periodic cases of leptospirosis are connected to contact with urine debased water, improper garbage disposal among several other factors. In many tropical regions such as Jamaica, leptospirosis is seen to increase during the rainy seasons and tapers down a little during the hotter climates. With the steady increase in outbreaks of this zoonosis, Leptospirosis has become a matter of grave concern. It has become a Public health volcano on the verge of eruption. Method: Six hundred participants were chosen from both a rural and an urban area in Jamaica. Interviews were carried out to ascertain the general awareness of the cost and cause of leptospirosis in Jamaica. Comparative analysis was done to gain needed information with regards to the cost of services and medication for this zoonotic illness. EBSCO host data base was searched for relevant literature that supported and enhanced the study. Simple analysis was achieved using the excel 2013 software. Results: Of the 600 participants 45% (n=270) were females and 55% (n= 330) being males. For those living in the rustic division, the cost of treatment was found to be higher than those living in the urban area. The assessed cost to treat leptospirosis in the urban area is roughly $24,267 JMD and if hospitalized it is approximated at $80,847 JMD. For those in the urban territory, if treated on time it would cost $18,500 JMD. Conclusion: The cost of leptospirosis treatment in Jamaica is on the rise with this becoming a global public health threat. With the cost of proper treatment being higher than the regular under paid Jamaica (minimum wage $6200 JMD).

Keywords:
Leptospirosis. Zoonosis Outbreak Financial cost

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