Public urged to take precautions as post-flood diseases surge

By Poojathmi Rivithma

Colombo, Dec. 3 (Daily Mirror) - Health officials have raised concerns over a rise in leptospirosis (rat fever), diarrhoea, chikungunya, dengue and various skin infections in the aftermath of recent floods across several parts of Sri Lanka.

Consultant Community Physician Dr. Athula Liyanapathirana urged the public to drink only clean water, either boiled or bottled, as contaminated water can easily transmit infectious diseases. He said that both authorities and community groups are working to distribute safe drinking water to affected areas.

Dr. Liyanapathirana also cautioned those donating cooked food to ensure it is prepared with clean water and consumed within six hours. “Otherwise, there is a high risk of food poisoning, and we have already received such reports,” he said. If food cannot be safely delivered and consumed within that time, donors are encouraged to provide dry rations or essential goods instead.

Highlighting the risks of rat fever, he warned that the disease can lead to severe complications or even death if not addressed early.

He further advised that individuals directly exposed to floodwater or involved in cleanup efforts may be prescribed Doxycycline as a preventive measure, noting that it is available at medical institutions. However, he stressed that the medication is not recommended for pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, children under 12, or those with liver or kidney disease.