Perilous Times
Malaysia takes action as rat-borne disease kills 10
(AFP)
KUALA LUMPUR — Malaysian health officials announced plans Monday to
tackle an outbreak of the rat-borne disease leptospirosis that has
killed 10 people, forcing several parks to close.
Health Minister Liow Tiong Lai said doctors had been ordered to inform
the authorities of any suspected cases in order to identify the source
of infections, the Star daily reported.
"When we are able to identify the source of the bacteria, then measures
can be taken to control it, including cleaning up works... and closure
of the affected places if necessary," he told the paper.
Health officials said the number of leptospirosis deaths has more than
tripled in the past six years with 20 deaths in 2004, 62 deaths last
year and 95 deaths between January 1 to August 15 this year.
The recent spate began in July when eight people, who were among a
search and rescue group looking for a drowning victim in a recreational
area in eastern Pahang state, died of the disease and another
water-borne bacteria.
The latest victim was a 17-year-old boy who died on Saturday after
going swimming in northern Kedah state.
Health authorities closed several riverside parks in the two states,
the state news agency Bernama reported.
Leptospirosis, which produces fever, vomiting, severe muscle aches and
headaches, is mostly spread through the urine of infected rats, which
can contaminate water supplies.
Liow urged those visiting recreational areas like parks, waterfalls and
rivers to keep their surroundings clean so as not to attract rats.
He said health authorities were organising a series of nationwide
campaigns to educate the public on ways to prevent infection.