Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MOHMS) has confirmed there are 36 cases of leptospirosis in Kadavu, with 40 per cent of those cases being children under 18 and 17 per cent under the age of nine.
A statement by MOMHS said Leptospirosis, a bacterial infection caused by the leptospira bacteria, was affecting both humans and animals in Kadavu.
The disease is spread through the urine of infected animals, with rats being a primary source of infection.
A response team assisting the sub-divisional medical officer (SDMO) Kadavu and team for the past two weeks have conducted awareness campaigns on rat control in 20 communities affected by leptospirosis.
Additionally, 870 rat baits have been distributed to households to help control the rat population on the island.
MOHMS said rat control was vital for controlling the spread of leptospirosis in Kadavu.
This can be achieved through measures such as sealing entry points to prevent rats from entering buildings, keeping food in tightly sealed containers, repairing leaky pipes to eliminate sources of water, and using traps or poisons.
Members of the public have been urged to take precautions such as avoiding contact with potentially contaminated water or soil and washing hands after handling animals or animal products.
