Farmers and agriculture workers have been warned to be on high alert for the Leptospirosis flu during the upcoming paddy cultivation season.
The warning was issued by Epidemiology Unit consultant community physician Dr. Thushani Dabrera during a weekly media briefing at the Health Promotions Bureau.
Dr. Dabrera stressed the need for vigilance given that Leptospirosis is spread by rats and mice through polluted waterways and water tainted with urine.
The disease, which is caused by the Leptospira bacteria, results in around 8,000 reported cases and 125 deaths annually. Ratnapura, Galle, Kalutara, and Matara have been identified as the worst affected regions, but cases have recently been recorded in Gampaha and Kurunegala.
The physician urged proper waste management and the use of filtered water and safety gear, and advised anyone experiencing symptoms to consult their nearest physician without delay.
