Kerala is facing a major public health challenge as monsoon-related diseases continue to rise across the state. Health authorities have reported more than 200,000 fever and infectious disease cases, while daily hospital visits have crossed 13,000.
The sharp increase in infections has placed the Health Department on high alert. Authorities are closely monitoring several diseases, including Dengue Fever, Leptospirosis (Rat Fever), Shigellosis, West Nile Fever, and Mpox.
Death Toll Raises Concern
The growing death toll has become a major concern for health officials and the public. According to available health data, Rat Fever (Leptospirosis) has claimed 23 lives, making it the deadliest disease outbreak during the current monsoon season. Dengue Fever has been linked to 17 deaths, while Shigella infections have claimed 6 lives.
Health experts say delayed treatment, exposure to contaminated water, and underlying health conditions have contributed to several severe cases. Authorities are urging people to seek immediate medical care if symptoms appear.
Dengue Cases Rise Rapidly
Dengue Fever remains one of the biggest health concerns this monsoon season. More than 1,100 confirmed cases have been reported within a month, along with thousands of suspected infections.
Health officials warn that continuous rainfall and stagnant water have created ideal breeding conditions for mosquitoes. This has significantly increased the risk of dengue transmission across many districts. Symptoms of Dengue include high fever, severe headache, body pain, joint pain, skin rashes, nausea, and fatigue.
Shigella Infections Affect Children
Kerala has also recorded a worrying rise in Shigella infections. More than 120 cases have emerged in recent weeks, particularly in northern districts.
Shigellosis is a bacterial infection that affects the digestive system and can cause severe diarrhea, stomach cramps, vomiting, and dehydration. Children and elderly people are considered the most vulnerable. Health officials have urged residents to maintain strict hygiene standards and consume only safe drinking water.
Rat Fever Cases Increase During Monsoon
Leptospirosis, commonly known as Rat Fever, continues to spread across several parts of the state. The disease is caused by bacteria found in water contaminated by the urine of infected animals, especially rats. It commonly spreads during floods and waterlogging. Farmers, sanitation workers, and people who come into contact with floodwater face a higher risk of infection. Symptoms include fever, muscle pain, headache, vomiting, and weakness. In severe cases, the disease can affect the kidneys, liver, and lungs.
West Nile Fever and Mpox Under Watch
Health authorities have also confirmed deaths linked to West Nile Fever in Ernakulam district. Officials have intensified mosquito-control operations in affected areas to prevent further spread. Meanwhile, an isolated Mpox case was detected in a traveler who recently returned from Saudi Arabia to Thiruvananthapuram. The patient is currently undergoing treatment in an isolation ward, and health officials say the situation remains under control.
Government Launches Statewide Response
The Kerala Health Department has launched several preventive measures to contain the outbreaks. Authorities are disinfecting drinking water sources and advising residents to boil water before consumption. Local bodies have intensified efforts to remove stagnant water and eliminate mosquito breeding sites.
Special “dry days” have been declared in offices, schools, and residential areas to encourage regular cleaning of water containers and surroundings. Health centers across the state are also stocking Oral Rehydration Solutions (ORS), zinc tablets, antibiotics, and other essential medicines to manage the increasing number of patients.
Public Urged to Stay Vigilant
Health experts are urging residents to remain alert and seek immediate medical attention if they experience symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, body pain, vomiting, diarrhea, skin rashes, or unusual weakness.
Officials stress that prevention remains the strongest defense against these diseases. Drinking boiled water, maintaining personal hygiene, avoiding stagnant water, using mosquito repellents, and following health advisories can significantly reduce the risk of infection.
A Challenging Monsoon Season
With the monsoon continuing across Kerala, health authorities are working to prevent further spread of infectious diseases and reduce the number of deaths. As the state battles multiple outbreaks at the same time, officials are calling for public cooperation and awareness. Early diagnosis, timely treatment, and preventive measures will be critical in protecting lives during this challenging monsoon season.