Amoebic Fever Outbreak in Kerala: Causes, Symptoms, and Impact of Free-Living Amoebae
Kerala has reported several deaths due to amoebic meningoencephalitis, a rare but fatal brain infection. The disease is caused by free-living amoebae such as Naegleria fowleri, Acanthamoeba, and Balamuthia mandrillaris, which are typically found in contaminated water sources and soil. Naegleria fowleri often enters the body through the nose during swimming or diving in warm freshwater. The recent spike in cases in districts like Wayanad and Kozhikode is attributed to high bacterial contamination in the state's water bodies, which promotes the growth of these organisms. Health authorities are monitoring the situation as the fatality rate remains high.
Key Points
- Primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM) is primarily caused by Naegleria fowleri, which feeds on bacteria in contaminated water.
- Other pathogenic species like Acanthamoeba and Balamuthia mandrillaris have also been detected in Kerala's water and soil.
- The infection is highly fatal, with 12 deaths reported out of 48 cases in Kerala as of early September 2025.
- Bacterial contamination in water bodies is a significant factor in the increased prominence of these pathogenic organisms.
Exam Facts
- Naegleria fowleri is commonly known as the 'brain-eating amoeba'.
- The Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) is the nodal agency monitoring the outbreak.
- The infection typically occurs when contaminated water enters the nasal cavity and travels to the brain.
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