Lagatar24 Desk
Ranchi: Amid ongoing rains and waterlogging in the capital, concerns have risen over the emergence of leptospirosis, commonly known as “rat fever,” with a private hospital reporting more than 130 confirmed cases during July and August, a significant number of them among children, though the Health Department has yet to officially confirm these figures.
What Is Rat Fever and How Does It Spread
Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection caused by Leptospira, typically spreading through contact with water or soil contaminated by the urine of infected rats and other animals. The bacteria enters the body through cuts or wounds on the skin, with risk increasing significantly in waterlogged areas during the rainy season. Children are particularly vulnerable, largely due to playing in water or walking barefoot through contaminated areas.
Symptoms Range from High Fever to Kidney and Liver Complications
According to RIMS paediatrician Dr. Kiran Kumar, early symptoms of leptospirosis can resemble a common viral fever, including sudden high fever, headache, chills, body and muscle pain, weakness, vomiting and redness in the eyes. If left untreated, the infection can turn severe, affecting the kidneys and liver, and in some cases leading to breathing difficulties and other serious complications. He advised people experiencing persistent high fever or similar symptoms to consult a doctor promptly.
Over 130 Cases Reported at Private Hospital
Dr. Soni Sinha, director of Rani Hospital, said more than 130 patients were confirmed positive for leptospirosis at the facility between July and August, adding that all patients have since been treated and discharged in good health. She explained that during rains, rat urine can mix into water and soil, and contact with such contaminated water poses infection risk, with the danger increasing further when people walk barefoot through waterlogged areas or remain in contact with contaminated water for extended periods.
Sadar Hospital Also Issues Alert
Sadar Hospital deputy superintendent Dr. Bimlesh Kumar Singh also urged people to remain cautious, noting that early symptoms of the disease can mimic an ordinary fever, and advised that persistent high fever, body aches or other symptoms following rain and waterlogging should not be dismissed as a common fever.
Dengue and Malaria Risks Also Persist
Alongside leptospirosis, Ranchi and the wider state of Jharkhand continue to face risks from dengue and malaria during the monsoon season, with more than 100 dengue cases reported in the state this year, alongside nearly 20,000 confirmed malaria cases. Experts note that dengue, malaria and leptospirosis share overlapping early symptoms such as fever and body aches, making it essential to consult a doctor rather than self-medicate if fever persists or worsens.
RIMS Sees Rising Patient Load
RIMS’s isolation ward remains filled with dengue and malaria patients, with hospital administration maintaining continuous monitoring and treatment arrangements in view of the growing patient numbers.
Health Department Also on Alert Over H1N1
The Health Department has also stepped up vigilance regarding H1N1 cases in the state. Health Minister Dr. Irfan Ansari reviewed the swine flu situation and the department’s preparedness, directing all civil surgeons, medical college superintendents and principals, and district surveillance officers to maintain continuous monitoring, with emphasis on timely identification, testing, treatment and immediate referral of suspected cases when needed.
Precautions to Prevent Rat Fever
Health officials have advised avoiding waterlogged areas where possible; wearing rubber boots and gloves if entering water is unavoidable; keeping any cuts or wounds properly covered; washing the body thoroughly with soap and clean water after contact with contaminated water; maintaining cleanliness in and around homes; avoiding direct contact with rat excreta; preventing children from playing in waterlogged areas; and consulting a doctor promptly if symptoms such as high fever, body aches or eye redness appear.
