“KERALA REPORTS FOURTH BRAIN-EATING AMOEBA CASE, URGES SAFETY MEASURES”

Why in the news?

  • Kerala reports fourth case of amoebic meningoencephalitis since May; 14-year-old boy from Payyoli currently receiving treatment.
  • Health officials urge avoiding unclean water bodies and ensuring proper chlorination of swimming pools to prevent infection.
source:cdc

About Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis (PAM):

  • Cause: Naegleria fowleri (brain-eating amoeba).
  • Environment: Thrives in warm freshwater lakes, ponds, rivers, and occasionally in poorly maintained swimming pools.
  • Infection: Infects the brain and destroys brain tissues.
  • Fatality Rate: 97% of patients do not survive.
  • Rarity: Infections are rare but highly fatal.
About Naegleria fowleri:

  • Also known as “brain-eating amoeba,” it is a single-celled organism.
  • Found in warm freshwater environments like lakes, hot springs, and poorly maintained swimming pools.
  • Discovered in Australia in 1965; visible only under a microscope.
  • Only one species, Naegleria fowleri, infects humans.
  • Causes primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM) by destroying brain tissue.

Human Infection Process:

  • Enters the body through the nose, then travels to the brain.
  • Infection can occur during swimming, diving, or dipping the head in freshwater.
  • Primarily associated with warm freshwater, especially during hot summer months.
  • Non-Communicable Nature: Infection does not spread from person to person.

Associated Article:

https://universalinstitutions.com/rise-in-meningoencephalitis-cases-in-kerala/