According to health authorities in Hambantota, those who worked in paddy fields are more prone to rat fever which is spread by bacteria from rat urine found in abundance in paddy fields.

The bacteria enters the humans through wounds or scratches, and advised those working in paddy fields to take a dose of Doxycycline capsules or tablets before entering a paddy field, as precaution.

Children who play in paddy fields could also be victims of rat fever, Health Authorities said.