“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.

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