Kerala Reports Another Death from Brain-Eating Amoeba, Total Rises to Seven this Year
Kozhikode, Kerala – In a troubling update, Kerala has reported one more death caused by amoebic meningoencephalitis, popularly known as the “brain-eating amoeba infection.” This brings the total number of lives lost to this rare but deadly disease in the state to seven so far in 2023.
The latest victim is 45-year-old Ratheesh from Bathery in Wayanad district. He had been battling the infection at Kozhikode Medical College Hospital (KMCH) for over a week. Unfortunately, his condition remained critical, and he passed away early Saturday morning. Ratheesh was initially admitted to a local hospital with high fever and cough before being transferred to KMCH when his health worsened.
Currently, one more patient from Kasaragod district is in critical condition at KMCH, and eleven others are receiving treatment. A patient who was being treated at the hospital was discharged last Friday.
So far, Kerala has confirmed 42 cases of amoebic meningoencephalitis this year. Most cases come from Kozhikode and Malappuram districts in the northern part of the state. Kozhikode alone has seen four deaths, including a three-month-old infant and a nine-year-old girl last month.
Health officials are actively working to control the spread of this dangerous infection. They are testing water sources like ponds, wells, and tanks in Kozhikode and nearby Malappuram districts, especially following the recent rise in cases. The hospital has also upgraded its diagnostic facilities to better detect the amoeba and is using funds from State Minister A.K. Saseendran to purchase new testing equipment.
The Kerala government launched the “Water is Life” campaign to ensure safe drinking water across the state. This initiative focuses on cleaning and disinfecting wells, water tanks, and public water bodies, especially during the monsoon season when the risk is higher.
Naegleria fowleri, the parasite that causes amoebic meningoencephalitis, thrives in warm freshwater such as ponds, lakes, and poorly chlorinated pools. It becomes a danger during hot weather and monsoon months. The infection occurs when water containing the amoeba enters the body through the nose, especially during swimming, bathing, or nasal rinsing. Once inside, it quickly reaches the brain, causing severe inflammation and often death.
Health officials continue to urge the public to practice water safety, avoid swimming in untreated or stagnant water, and take precautions during monsoon season to prevent infection from this deadly protozoan.
Stay informed and stay safe!
