Kerala Reports Rise in Fatal 'Brain-Eating Amoeba' Infections with High Mortality Rate
Kerala has reported more deaths due to amoebic meningoencephalitis, bringing this year's toll to three with 42 cases reported. The infection, often called 'brain-eating amoeba,' primarily spreads through contaminated water in ponds or wells. Two variants are noted: Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis (PAM) and Granulomatous Amoebic Encephalitis (GAE), with the latter currently reported in Kerala. The disease has a staggering 95% mortality rate. Symptoms include fever, headache, and nausea, appearing within 5-10 days of contact. The Health Department has initiated statewide waterbody chlorination as a precaution.
Key Points
- Amoebic meningoencephalitis is caused by amoebas entering the human body through the nose from contaminated water.
- The two main variants are Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis (PAM) and Granulomatous Amoebic Encephalitis (GAE).
- The infection has a very high mortality rate, estimated at 95% by health officials.
- Symptoms typically manifest within 5 to 10 days of contracting the amoeba.
Exam Facts
- Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis (PAM)
- Granulomatous Amoebic Encephalitis (GAE)
- 95% mortality rate
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