Thiruvananthapuram: Rat fever, also known as leptospirosis, is becoming one of Kerala’s biggest public health threats. Health experts warn that the disease is spreading quickly while receiving far less attention than dengue and other seasonal illnesses.
Official data shows that Kerala recorded 1,455 rat fever deaths between 2021 and 2025. During the same period, the number of infections nearly tripled. The disease now has a mortality rate of 6%, making it one of the state’s deadliest infectious diseases.
Cases Continue to Rise in 2026
The situation remains serious this year. Data from the Directorate of Health Services shows that Kerala has already reported 1,531 cases and 56 deaths as of June 23, 2026.
Doctors say many people fail to recognise the disease early because public attention remains focused on dengue outbreaks and occasional shigellosis cases.
Disease Is No Longer Limited to Farmers
Health experts say rat fever is no longer affecting only farmers and field workers. Dr. Althaf A, epidemiologist and professor at Government Medical College, Thiruvananthapuram, said doctors are now finding cases among people from different backgrounds, including bedridden patients with very little outdoor exposure. This change suggests that the bacteria have spread more widely in the environment than before.
Symptoms Become Severe Much Faster
Doctors also warn that the disease is becoming more aggressive. Earlier, serious complications usually appeared after one or two weeks. Now, many patients develop organ damage within three to four days after the fever begins.Because of this, doctors stress that early diagnosis can save lives.
Experts Call for Immediate Treatment
Medical experts recommend that doctors start treatment as soon as they suspect rat fever instead of waiting for laboratory confirmation. The High-Power Committee for Epidemic Control advises early use of doxycycline. It also recommends providing gloves and boots to agricultural workers and other people who face a higher risk of infection.
Public Awareness Is Key
Health experts believe Kerala must give rat fever the same level of attention as dengue and other infectious diseases. They say stronger awareness campaigns, faster diagnosis, and early treatment can help reduce deaths and stop the disease from spreading further.