Deadly Indian ‘rat fever’ kills at least 12, with another 54 suspected deaths
Disease spread through water, soil or food containing rodent urine has infected 372 people in southern state of Kerala
The bacteria can enter the body through cuts or abrasions on the skin, or through the mouth, nose and eyes, according to the World Health Organisation. Person-to-person transmission is rare.
Early symptoms of leptospirosis such as high fever, muscle ache, vomiting, red eyes and chills are similar to those of other diseases, making it difficult for health workers to diagnose.
Other disease outbreaks including dengue fever following last month’s floods – which killed almost 500 people and forced more than a million from their homes – have left 28 dead.
More than 50,000 people have acute diarrhoea, authorities said. Cases of malaria and chickenpox have also been reported.
“We had anticipated leptospirosis due to contaminated water and are taking all measures to distribute preventive drugs in camps,” Kerala health director Sarita R.L. said.