The Ratnapura district has reported the highest number of rat fever cases and deaths this year, according to Dr. Kapila Kannangara, Sabaragamuwa Provincial Health Services Director.

Speaking at a rat fever prevention event at the Sabaragamuwa Provincial Council, Dr. Kannangara stated that 1,882 cases of rat fever have been identified in the district, with 22 fatalities.

High-risk areas include Eheliyagoda, Kiriella, Elapatha, Pelmadulla, Opanayake, Nivitigala, Kalawana, and Kaltota.

Dr. Kannangara wa ed that without proper treatment, rat fever could lead to organ failure, affecting the kidneys, heart, and brain, and potentially causing death.

He advised farmers to take the preventive medicine Doxycycline a week before starting paddy work. The medicine is available at Regional Health Offices or through Public Health Inspectors.