Over 1,000 rat fever cases reported in Ratnapura

By Poojathmi Rivithma   

A total of 1,882 leptospirosis (rat fever) cases have been reported in the Ratnapura District, marking the highest number of deaths from the disease this year.   

Sabaragamuwa Provincial Health Services Director, Dr. Kapila Kannangara, speaking to the Daily Mirror, warned that if rat fever is not properly treated, it can lead to organ failure in the kidneys, heart and brain and may even result in death. He said that high-risk areas within the Ratnapura District include Eheliyagoda, Kiriella, Elapatha, Pelmadulla, Opanayake, Nivithigala, Kalawana and Kalthota.   

So far, 22 deaths have been reported due to rat fever.   

Health authorities have advised that Doxycycline, a preventive measure against rat fever, can be obtained from the regional health service officers or the Public Health Inspector a week before starting fieldwork.  In 2023, there were 1,400 cases, and the number has increased in 2024.