Rat Bites Pose Hidden Health Risks, Warn Doctors Amid Cooper Hospital Incident.
Mumbai: After a series of incidents involving rats inside Cooper Hospital in Andheri, public hospitals across the city have gone on high alert. Nair, Sion, KEM, JJ and other major hospitals have launched intensive cleanliness and safety measures, prioritizing patient protection through a large-scale “Catch the Rat” campaign.
At Cooper Hospital, a patient was recently bitten by a rat, sparking anger among relatives and raising serious concerns about patient safety. The victim was given preventive treatment, but the incident highlighted the potential health risks posed by rodents. In response, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) immediately began targeted measures to trap rats. Officials admit, however, that the problem is not limited to Cooper Hospital alone, and similar issues could occur in other facilities.
Authorities have been holding review meetings to identify problem spots such as cavities or burrows in wards. Additional traps and sticky pads have been installed, biomedical waste is being disposed of on time, and pest control officers are conducting daily inspections. An independent inquiry committee has also been set up to recommend long-term solutions.
Over 70 Rats Trapped So Far
So far, more than 70 rats have been captured in cages at Cooper Hospital. Following this, other civic hospitals have tightened precautions.
Rat Bites: A Hidden Public Health Risk
“Rat bites, though often dismissed as minor injuries, can carry serious health risks if not treated promptly. Beyond the pain and bleeding from the wound, a rat bite can introduce dangerous infections into the body,” said Dr Ashish Tiwari, Physician, ACS Health.
One of the biggest concerns is rat-bite fever, a bacterial illness that may develop within days of the incident. Symptoms include high fever, chills, muscle aches, painful joints, and rashes. If left untreated, the disease can progress to severe complications such as pneumonia, heart infection (endocarditis), or even meningitis.
There is also a risk of tetanus, especially in individuals whose vaccinations are not up to date. Other possible infections include leptospirosis and, in vulnerable patients, sepsis, added Dr. Tiwari.
Immediate first aid for anyone bitten by a rat:
- Wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water for at least 15 minutes.
- Apply an antiseptic.
- Consult a doctor without delay.
Most cases recover well with proper treatment, but ignoring a rat bite can lead to dangerous consequences. Timely care makes all the difference.
