United States: Parts of Puerto Rico still without running water, electricity

Event

As of Thursday, November 9, Puerto Rico is still acutely suffering from damages linked to Hurricane Maria, nearly seven weeks after the storm struck the island. Though most roads have been cleared of obstructions and many stores have reopened, electricity output is only at 60 percent of pre-Maria levels, and approximately 20 percent of the island is still without running water. A consequent outbreak of leptospirosis has infected at least 18 people since the hurricane made landfall, and has left at least four people dead.

According to the Puerto Rican government, the official death toll in Puerto Rico from Hurricane Maria and associated diseases is around 55 people; however, on November 3 the San Juan mayor claimed that the actual death toll may total almost 500 people. Additional cases of leptospirosis and other water-borne diseases may be reported in the coming weeks as running water continues to be slowly restored to affected areas.

The number of federal troops in Puerto Rico - currently totaling roughly 11,000 - is expected to decrease by roughly half in the coming weeks as Puerto Rico's National Guard assumes greater responsibility for continued recovery efforts.

Context

Puerto Rico's electricity and water grids were devastated by Hurricane Maria when it struck the territory on September 20.​ Mass power outages, along with other issues, brought Puerto Rico's economy to a near standstill.

Leptospirosis, also called Weil's disease, is spread through rat or other infected animal fluids (e.g. urine) that can contaminate water or soil and survive there for up to several months. The bacteria enters the human body through lacerations, the eyes, nose, or mouth. Symptoms of the illness include fever, nausea, muscle aches, vomiting, and diarrhea. The disease is serious but treatable with antibiotics.

Advice

Individuals in Puerto Rico are advised to adhere to all instructions issued by local health and other officials. Avoid stagnant water and soil that may be contaminated with animal fluids. Anyone experiencing the aforementioned symptoms should seek immediate medical attention.