A man carrying out excavation work at Morrison Utility on the Red Scar industrial estate is being tested for Weil's Disease, a rare but potentially fatal bacterial infection spread by the urine of rats.

The man, who was working on the United Utilities contract at the firm, complained of feeling sick, tired and lethargic – all symptoms of the disease.

Workers at the company have been sent a letter warning them about the possible suspected case and to look for symptoms.

One worker says a further five employees are off sick and suspected to have the disease.

The worker, who did not wish to be named, said: "We got a letter telling us one man was suspected of having Weil's Disease, but the word going round is that there are actually six people affected.

"Weil's Disease is contracted through rats' urine and we see rats on the site all the time.

"Rats are becoming a huge problem in Preston as they are prolific breeders and where there is food, there will be
rats."

The Lancashire Evening Post recently revealed Preston's rat population is booming and that the council is considering taking on more ratcatchers.

Richard Collett from Morrison Utility today said: "One of our employees complained of feeling sick, tired and lethargic.

"While the symptoms are similar to those associated with Weil's Disease, there is no confirmed report that he actually has the disease.

"The employee was immediately advised to see his GP for blood tests. These blood tests are due to be back within the next few weeks.

"All employees experiencing any of the symptoms and think they may be infected have been advised to see their GP."

Morrison Utility, which employs around 120 people, has sent the letter and warning leaflets to all 88 of its operatives who it considers may be at risk.

Dr Steven Gee, consultant in communicable disease control with the Health Protection Agency Cumbria and Lancashire Health Protection Unit, said: "Weil's Disease is rare and I cannot remember the last time there was a case in Preston.

"It can cause liver failure and renal failure in worst case scenarios. Sewer workers are at risk of it.

"As it is so rare, the blood tests for it are carried out at a veterinary laboratory in Weybridge."