Health Authorities Warn of Leptospirosis (Rat Fever) Risk in Flood-affected Areas

COLOMBO (News 1st) - Health Authorities are warning of a potential Leptospirosis (Rat fever) outbreak in flood-affected areas. 

The Epidemiology Unit has identified Ratnapura, Galle, Kalutara, Kurunegala, Kegalle, and Matara districts as high-risk zones.

Around 10,000 cases of rat fever have been reported so far this year.

Ministry of Health says that between 120 and 200 deaths are reported annually due to the disease. 

Health officials caution that the urine of infected rats can contaminate water sources, and the germs can enter the body through open wounds, leading to Leptospirosis.

Symptoms include red eyes, fever, reduced urine output, severe headache, and muscle pain. 

The Ministry of Health advises anyone experiencing these symptoms to seek immediate medical attention.