Kerala has reported 80 cases and 21 deaths due to Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis (PAM), a rare and highly fatal brain infection caused by the Naegleria fowleri amoeba, also known as the “brain-eating amoeba.”

State Health Minister Veena George said the cause of the infections is still being investigated.

“80 cases reported in the state and 21 deaths. The reason why amoebic meningoencephalitis cases are getting reported in Kerala is quite clear: after 2023, we have insisted on reporting every single encephalitis case and also finding the cause of it,” she told reporters.

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor, speaking to ANI, advised caution around freshwater bodies:
“It is a very sad story. A lot of people have caught this fatal virus by swimming in the freshwater. It seems very dangerous. Some doctors are advising people not to swim in freshwater until a safer solution can be found. I can just endorse that request to everybody: Don't take risks, don't go in freshwater.”

What is the brain-eating amoeba?

According to the Cleveland Clinic, Naegleria fowleri lives in warm, shallow freshwater such as lakes, rivers, and hot springs. People infected with it develop primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM), a serious central nervous system infection that is almost always fatal.

The amoeba enters the body through the nose while swimming, diving, or engaging in water sports in contaminated water. From there, it travels to the brain, causing the infection.

How to prevent infection

  • Avoid swimming, wading, or water sports in warm freshwater, especially still waters, without nose plugs.

  • Do not use tap water in neti pots or devices for nasal cleaning; use distilled or sterilized water only.

  • Use filters labeled NSF 53, NSF 58, or with an absolute pore size of 1 micron or smaller to remove germs from water.

  • Disinfect water with chlorine bleach or tablets for cleaning your nose and sinuses.

Following these precautions can help reduce the risk of this deadly infection.