Heavy rains sweeping across the state have led to a sharp increase in fever cases, which have crossed the 100,000 mark in just two weeks. Between October 30 and November 12, the health department recorded 116,834 cases of fever, averaging nearly 10,000 new cases daily. Dengue, a mosquito-borne illness, remains a significant health challenge, with 1,884 new cases reported during this period, claiming five lives. Rabies has also added to the health crisis, with several cases and fatalities reported across Thiruvananthapuram, Kozhikode, Kollam, Palakkad, and Kannur districts, underscoring the importance of timely medical intervention.
Rat fever, or leptospirosis, has emerged as a particularly lethal threat, with 394 confirmed cases and 17 fatalities in the past fortnight. Health officials warn that exposure to contaminated water significantly raises the risk of contracting the disease, which can be fatal without early prophylactic treatment. Hepatitis A cases have also surged, with 1,134 infections and four deaths reported, largely attributed to drinking water contamination.
In response to the rising cases, health authorities are urging the public to adopt preventive measures. People are advised to remove stagnant water in and around homes to prevent mosquito breeding, refrain from storing water in open containers, and to take preventive medicines if exposed to contaminated water. Drinking only boiled water, chlorinating water sources, and seeking prompt medical care for fevers lasting more than three days are also recommended to help curb the spread of these infections. By taking these precautions, residents can help reduce the risk of contracting these dangerous illnesses as the rains persist.
