January 06, Colombo (LNW): The Regional Director of Health Services (RDHS) office in Vavuniya has confirmed that 41 individuals in the district contracted Leptospirosis, commonly known as “rat fever,” in the year 2024.
This was revealed during an informative session organised by the RDHS to raise awareness about the disease and educate the public on preventive strategies.
According to the RDHS, the majority of the cases were reported among farmers during the two major cultivation periods – the ‘Maha’ and ‘Yala’ seasons.
The outbreaks were a significant concern for the agricultural community, with those working in fields and close to rodent habitats being most at risk.
Leptospirosis, which is often spread through contact with water or soil contaminated by the urine of infected animals, particularly rats, is a major health issue for those in farming and rural areas.
The RDHS highlighted that early intervention, such as taking preventive antibiotics before starting cultivation during the peak farming seasons, is key to reducing the likelihood of infection.
The office also drew comparisons to the successful measures implemented in the Jaffna district, where the spread of rat fever was effectively controlled. Following this model, similar steps have been taken in Vavuniya to curb the potential for further outbreaks.
These actions include providing farmers with essential information about protective measures, ensuring the distribution of antibiotics where needed, and reinforcing hygiene and safety protocols on farms.
The RDHS has stressed that while the disease is preventable, vigilance is required from both the authorities and the farming community.
