Kerala is battling a serious health challenge after 19 people lost their lives to Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis (PAM), a rare but deadly infection caused by the brain-eating amoeba Naegleria fowleri. The state has confirmed 69 cases in 2025, almost double last year’s count, making it one of the worst outbreaks in recent years. Cases have been reported across multiple districts, affecting patients as young as three months and as old as 91 years. Health Minister Veena George confirmed that, unlike previous years when cases were traced to specific water clusters, these are now isolated cases, complicating investigations.
The infection spreads when contaminated water enters the body through the nose while swimming, diving, or bathing in untreated freshwater sources like lakes, ponds, and poorly maintained water tanks. It does not spread through drinking water or from person to person, but once it reaches the brain, it destroys brain tissue rapidly, causing swelling and often death.
Symptoms, Risks And Prevention
PAM is difficult to detect early because its symptoms resemble bacterial meningitis. Most patients present late, making survival rare. Global warming and higher water temperatures are increasing risks of exposure, especially during summer when recreational water use is high.
Common Symptoms Of PAM Infection:
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Severe headache
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Fever and nausea
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Vomiting
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Stiff neck
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Confusion or seizures
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Rapid brain swelling leading to coma or death
How To Stay Safe From Brain-Eating Amoeba:
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Avoid swimming or bathing in untreated or stagnant freshwater bodies
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Use nose clips if swimming in lakes, ponds, or rivers
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Ensure wells and water tanks are regularly cleaned and chlorinated
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Seek immediate medical help if symptoms appear after freshwater exposure
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Encourage awareness about risks, especially among children and young adults
Doctors stress that early detection is the only way to improve survival chances. Treatments include antimicrobial cocktails that can cross the blood-brain barrier, but delays in diagnosis often reduce effectiveness. Kerala’s health department, along with the National Centre for Disease Control, is conducting water sampling to identify contamination sources and prevent further outbreaks.
