1,700 Rat Fever cases in Coastal Karnataka over 3 years!

Mangaluru: Rat fever (Leptospirosis) cases have been fluctuating in the coastal region over the past few years, with a total of 1,700 people testing positive across two districts in the last three years.

In Dakshina Kannada, 751 cases were reported, while Udupi district saw 949 cases. Since the beginning of 2026, 13 cases have already been recorded in Dakshina Kannada and 11 in Udupi. With the monsoon season approaching in a few months, health officials warn of a conducive environment for a spike in infections. Annual monsoon flooding significantly increases the risk as rats are forced out of their burrows, leading to higher human exposure.

Causes of Spread

Rats are the primary carriers of the disease. The Leptospira bacteria are present in the urine of infected rats. When this mixes with floodwaters or stagnant puddles, it infects humans. Interestingly, cases are higher in urban areas compared to rural regions. Poor urban sanitation, improper waste management by restaurants dumping food in roadside drains, and leaving food out for stray dogs are cited as major reasons for the increased rat population and subsequent spread of the disease.

House-to-House Awareness

The Health Department has initiated an awareness drive. ASHAs, Health Security Officers, and Multi-Purpose Workers (MPW) are visiting homes to inform residents about symptoms and precautionary measures.

Precaution is Essential

While the disease spreads from rats to humans through contact with contaminated urine or soil, it does not spread from person to person. However, precautions are vital. Parents are advised against letting children play in stagnant water. While most cases are mild, about 20% of cases can become severe, leading to multi-organ failure.

"Dakshina Kannada is among the districts where rat fever is prevalent. The risk increases during the monsoon. Public must take precautions. Effective medication is available, and the disease is completely curable," said Dr. Thimmaiah, District Health Officer (DHO), Dakshina Kannada.