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Health Ministry sounds ‘red alert’ on rat fever
View(s):Health authorities are warning of a high risk of the spread of leptospirosis (rat fever) in the aftermath of the recent heavy rains.
While many diseases tend to spread with the onset of the rainy season, rat fever poses a particular threat, the Health Promotion Bureau of the Ministry of Heath, Nutrition & Indigenous Medicine said.
The Ministry asked those in high risk groups, particularly, those working in paddy fields or, in places where there is stagnant water, to obtain the medicine given to prevent the onset of rat fever.
Those who have wounds or, even minor cuts on their feet, should refrain from work in paddy fields or, of standing in stagnant water.
The Ministry advises those at risk of contracting the disease, to take the preventive medicine- doxycycline capsules.
Rat fever victims suffer from fever and headaches at its onset and then develop body aches. If left untreated, it can affect the kidneys and could even lead to death.
The Health Ministry said those who want further information on rat fever and its treatment, can contact a 24-hour hotline on 0710 107 107.