Rise in Fatal Brain Infection Alarms Kerala as Government Intensifies Action
Kerala Is On High Alert As A Deadly Brain-Eating Amoeba Spreads: Kerala is witnessing a worrying surge in cases of amebic meningoencephalitis, a rare and often fatal brain infection caused primarily by the “brain-eating” amoeba Naegleria fowleri. Health Minister Veena George confirmed on Tuesday that 80 cases have been reported so far, with 21 resulting in death. The state government is actively investigating the spike in infections, which has become a significant public health concern since 2023.
To combat the outbreak, Kerala has established local testing infrastructure, including PCR testing capabilities in regional microbiology labs. Technical guidelines released in 2024 are focused on early detection, prompt treatment, and preventive strategies such as the chlorination of public water sources. The Health Minister emphasized that every encephalitis case is being thoroughly examined to determine its root cause.
While Naegleria fowleri remains the primary threat, other deadly amoebas like Balamuthia mandrillaris and Acanthamoeba have also been detected in the state. These organisms typically infect individuals when contaminated water enters the nose during activities like bathing in ponds or rivers. The government continues to raise awareness and implement measures to reduce the spread of this deadly infection.
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