Experts warn of disease outbreaks across Sri Lanka

As torrential rains lash Sri Lanka, health experts are sounding the alarm over a surge in waterborne diseases.

Senior Consultant Physician Dr. Ananda Wijewickrama told the Daily Mirror that diseases such as dengue, leptospirosis, hepatitis A, typhoid, and diarrhoea could spread rapidly as rainwater contaminates drinking water sources and creates ideal conditions for mosquitoes to breed.

He said the rainy season greatly increases the risk of several serious illnesses, with dengue fever posing a major threat.

“Flooded and stagnant areas become perfect breeding grounds for mosquitoes. At the same time, floodwater can mix with urine from infected animals, leading to the spread of leptospirosis, or ‘rat fever,’” Dr. Wijewickrama explained.

He cautioned that people working or wading through flooded or muddy areas such as farmers, construction workers, and rescuers are particularly at risk.

“They should wear boots, gloves, and protective clothing, and seek immediate medical attention if they experience symptoms such as fever, headaches, chills, or muscle pain,” he said.

The physician further noted that outbreaks of diarrhoeal diseases, hepatitis A, and typhoid are common after heavy rains due to contaminated drinking water and poor sanitation.

“People often use unclean water from wells or streams during floods, which increases the risk of these infections,” he added.

“These illnesses may not appear right away but could surface as floodwaters begin to recede over the next two weeks. It’s crucial to act early to prevent a health crisis,” Dr. Wijewickrama stressed.

He also reminded the public to ensure safe drinking water by boiling or chlorinating it, properly dispose of garbage to reduce mosquito breeding, and maintain good personal hygiene.

“Simple preventive steps such as washing hands before meals, drinking boiled water, covering food, and avoiding exposure to muddy or stagnant water can save lives,” he pointed out.

(Source - Dailymirror)