With the onset of the Maha season, health authorities have launched a critical public awareness campaign against the potentially fatal bacterial infection leptospirosis.
Commonly known as ‘rat fever,’ Sri Lanka has recorded over 8,000 cases of leptospirosis so far this year. The country typically records over 10,000 cases annually, resulting in an estimated 100-200 deaths.
Ministry of Health Epidemiology Unit Consultant Community Physician Dr. Thushani Dabrera confirmed the current year’s figures, which follow 13,000 cases reported in 2024.
The ongoing campaign is strategically timed with the start of the Maha paddy cultivation season, a period when infections typically spike alongside the monsoon rains.
“Leptospirosis is primarily associated with paddy cultivation and harvesting,” stated Dr. Dabrera.
“We have been advising farmers to collect preventive antibiotics free of charge from their local Medical Officer of Health (MOH) or Public Health Inspector (PHI).”
Since 1 September, the ministry has been airing radio spots targeting agricultural communities. The core prevention message emphasises rigorous personal hygiene.
Farmers are urged to carefully inspect their skin for any cuts, abrasions, or fungal infections before entering fields and to cover all wounds with a waterproof dressing. They are also advised to avoid drinking or splashing contaminated water on their face and to wear protective boots whenever possible.
The bacteria enter the body through open skin or mucous membranes, making these precautions vital. Dr. Dabrera stressed the importance of immediate medical attention, noting that while the disease was treatable if diagnosed early, delays could lead to fatal complications.
“If a farmer develops a fever, they must see a doctor immediately and mention their exposure risk,” she warned.
The illness poses the greatest threat in high-risk districts including Ratnapura, Kurunegala, Kegalle, Monaragala, Hambantota, Matara, Anuradhapura, and Polonnaruwa.
While the Jaffna Peninsula typically sees fewer cases, it experienced a significant outbreak last year following severe floods, demonstrating that the risk exists anywhere people are exposed to muddy water contaminated by infected rats.
The official death toll for the current year remains under review. Dr. Dabrera explained that, unlike with dengue, confirming a leptospirosis fatality required a lengthy verification process by a panel of clinicians, as the symptoms could mimic other diseases.
This rigorous procedure means final mortality figures are not immediately available but will be tabulated eventually.