The Health Promotion Bureau of Sri Lanka has warned the public to be vigilant of Leptospirosis (Rat Fever) due to exposure to floodwaters, as a result of adverse weather in Sri Lanka.
Issuing a notice, the Bureau outlined the following instances through which a person could get infected;
- If you have walked, worked, or cleaned in floodwater or muddy water.
- If you have cleaned wells, drainage systems, or garbage after floodwaters receded.
- If you had cuts or wounds on your feet or legs and came into contact with wet or muddy areas.
Those who have experienced any of the above have been instructed to get immediate medical attention for possible infection of Rat Fever.
The Health Promotion Bureau further said that people affected by the flood disaster can obtain the full preventive treatment (Doxycycline) free of charge.
The Bureau instructed the public to contact the local Medical Officer of Health office or the Public Health Inspector in their respective areas. (Newswire)
