Sri Lanka, Nov. 12 -- Sri Lanka has recorded nearly 7,000 cases of leptospirosis, commonly known as rat fever, so far this year, with health authorities warning that infections could rise further amid monsoon rains and the start of the Maha cultivation season.

Consultant Community Physician at the Epidemiology Unit, Dr Thushari Dabarera, said the disease claims around 300 lives annually in the country.

Speaking at a media briefing organised by the Health Promotion Bureau, she cautioned that leptospirosis could be fatal if diagnosis and treatment are delayed.

Ratnapura, Kegalle, Galle and Matara have reported the highest numbers of infections so far this year, according to health officials.

The Epidemiology Unit and the Health Promotio...