Thiruvananthapuram, 20 June (H.S.) :Kerala’s public health authorities are grappling with a growing outbreak of infectious diseases, with 13 new cases of Shigella infection confirmed on Saturday even as fever-related illnesses continue to spread across the state.

According to data released by the Health Department, as many as 13,187 people sought treatment for fever-related ailments in a single day, underscoring the increasing pressure on the healthcare system during the monsoon season. Three deaths linked to fever-related illnesses were also reported on Saturday.

Health officials said one of the deaths has been confirmed as being caused by leptospirosis, commonly known as rat fever. Another death is suspected to be due to the same disease and is awaiting confirmation. A third person died after contracting jaundice, officials added.

The state also recorded 75 fresh cases of dengue fever on Saturday, while 312 people are currently undergoing treatment with suspected dengue symptoms. The Health Department noted that 11 people have died from dengue fever so far this month, raising concerns over the rapid spread of mosquito-borne diseases.

In addition, 13 new cases of leptospirosis were confirmed during the day. Health experts have repeatedly warned the public about the heightened risk of rat fever during the rainy season, particularly among people exposed to contaminated water in flooded areas and agricultural fields.

The latest figures indicate the scale of the public health challenge facing Kerala. Official records show that more than 219,000 people have sought medical treatment for fever during the first 20 days of June alone, reflecting a sharp rise in seasonal illnesses across the state.

Health authorities have intensified surveillance and preventive measures, while urging the public to maintain personal hygiene, eliminate mosquito breeding sources, avoid contact with contaminated water and seek immediate medical attention if symptoms such as high fever, vomiting, severe headache or body pain develop.

The Health Department has advised district administrations and local bodies to strengthen disease-control measures as the state continues to battle multiple infectious disease outbreaks simultaneously.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman