Epidemiologists urge public to be cautious of leptospirosis and skin rashes following floods

IN the aftermath of the unprecedented flooding which engulfed the island, epidemiologists warn the public to be cautious of possible outbreaks of leptospirosis, commonly known as 'rat fever' or 'mee una' and skin diseases.

- BY RANDIMA ATTYGALLE

Communities directly exposed to stagnant waters resulting from flooding of their houses and neighbourhoods and rescue missions, community workers and aid providers are vulnerable to these diseases caused by contaminated waters. Experts caution that those involved in post-flood cleaning are particularly vulnerable to Leptospira bacteria, which thrive in the shallow, muddy water commonly left behind after heavy flooding.

Speaking to the Daily FT, Health Ministry Epidemiology Unit Consultant Epidemiologist Dr. Prabha Abeykoon urged people suspected of either leptospirosis or skin infection, to seek immediate medical health. “Leptospirosis is often associated with rodents, and many different kinds of wild and domestic animals may also carry the bacteria,” she says.