After dengue and H1NI, now rat fever threatens Kerala

District administration has issued alert against rat fever threat in Alappuzha district As many as 245 cases of rat fever were reported this year Incidence of waterborne diseases has been noticed in waterlogged places

At a time when the recurring fevers are taking a toll in Kerala, the state government has issued alert about possible rat fever threat in the water-logged areas in Alappuzha district. The district administration has warned that the bacterial disease is transmitted mostly through rodent and the most affected are paddy workers and those living near to canals. 

"Incidence of waterborne diseases, especially rat fever, has been noticed throughout the year in places like Kuttanad, which is waterlogged," Government Medical College superintendent R V Ramlal said. 

Over 70% people admitted with waterborne diseases were from Nedumudy, Champakulam, Kainakary, Pallathuruthy and Monkombu. However, the number of cases has come down, and only 30 to 40 cases are being reported per day whereas over 100 persons used to get admitted earlier in the week, Ramlal said. 

Government hospitals are providing free antibiotics to prevent the spread of leptospirosis or rat fever. Death due to rat fever can be prevented with antibiotics. However, patients must be able to remain hygiene, Dr B Padmakumar of Government Medical College, Kollam, said. 

Those making a living from water bodies should ensure that they do not have any wounds on their body as the bacteria enters the body through gash, he said. 

As many as 245 cases of rat fever were reported across the state this year of which 149 cases and three deaths were confirmed.