Kerala is currently witnessing a significant health crisis with 42 reported cases of amoebic meningoencephalitis this year, a rare but deadly brain infection caused by the brain-eating amoeba Naegleria fowleri. In 2024, the state had recorded 36 cases and nine deaths. The infection occurs when this amoeba, commonly found in warm, stagnant freshwaters such as ponds, lakes, and wells, enters the human body through the nose, usually during swimming or diving in contaminated water. The amoeba then travels to the brain, where it causes severe tissue damage and swelling, leading to death in most cases.
Recent fatalities include a 52-year-old woman from Malappuram and a three-month-old infant from Kozhikode, both of whom passed away after being treated at the Kozhikode Government Medical College Hospital. Another death reported earlier this year was that of a nine-year-old girl from Thamarassery. Currently, ten patients are undergoing treatment at the Kozhikode Medical College Hospital, with two in critical condition.
Symptoms of this infection typically appear within 5–10 days after exposure and include headache, fever, vomiting, nausea, and sensitivity to bright light. With a global fatality rate of approximately 97%, this infection is particularly deadly. The Kerala government has initiated preventive measures such as chlorination of wells and public water sources and awareness campaigns to educate the public about the risks, especially during the monsoon season.
This outbreak highlights the challenges posed by environmental changes, including rising temperatures and pollution, which create favorable conditions for the amoeba to thrive. Public health officials emphasize avoiding swimming in stagnant freshwater and practicing water safety to reduce infection risks.
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