Kerala Reports 67 Cases Of Deadly Brain-Eating Amoeba, 18 Deaths So Far

Last Updated:September 16, 2025, 14:14 IST

Amoebic meningoencephalitis, often called the “brain-eating amoeba” infection, is caused by Naegleria fowleri.

Kerala confirms 67 brain-eating amoeba cases, 18 deaths this year. (Representative Image)

Kerala has reported 67 cases and 18 deaths due to brain-eating amoeba this year, figures from the state health department showed on Monday.

Officials said the numbers were updated under the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme. In view of the rising cases, Kerala Health Minister Veena George prompted urgent water safety and preventive measures.

Recent Cases In Kerala

• A 17-year-old student from Poovar, Thiruvananthapuram, was diagnosed with PAM after swimming in the Akkulam Tourist Village pool. His condition is serious, while the pool has been shut and water samples collected.
• In Kozhikode, a 49-year-old man named Shaji died. He had a head injury, later developed an infection.
• A nine-year-old girl from Thamarassery (Kozhikode) died after rapidly worsening symptoms.
• Other demographics include infants (3-month-olds), elderly, etc. Several patients are being treated.

What Is Amoebic Meningoencephalitis?

Amoebic meningoencephalitis, often called the “brain-eating amoeba” infection, is caused by Naegleria fowleri. The amoeba thrives in warm, stagnant, or inadequately treated water and enters the body through the nose.

The disease is extremely rare but highly fatal, with a high mortality rate worldwide. Once inside, the amoeba travels to the brain, causing severe inflammation.

Symptoms Of Amoebic Meningoencephalitis

• Fever
• Headache
• Vomiting
• Stiffness of the neck
• Nausea

Kerala Government’s Response

The government has issued advisories as follows:

• Avoid swimming or bathing in stagnant or unclean water bodies, lakes, ponds etc.
• Ensure swimming pools are adequately chlorinated; check maintenance.
• Use clean, treated water for nasal rinsing/cleansing. Avoid the use of contaminated water for ritual or other washing that involves water going into the nose.
• Keep home water storage tanks/wells clean, disinfected. Cover wells properly.
• Be aware of symptoms: fever, headache, vomiting, stiff neck, etc., and seek medical attention quickly. Early diagnosis improves survival.

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