Kerala brain-eating amoeba: Exploring the Link Between Brain-Eating Amoeba and Kerala Deaths

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Kerala brain-eating amoeba Overview

Kerala brain-eating amoeba: A 14-year-old boy, receiving treatment for primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM)—an infection caused by the “brain-eating amoeba” Naegleria fowleri—passed away at a private hospital in Kerala on Wednesday, according to state health officials.

Health authorities traced the infection to a small pond where the boy had been swimming, prompting immediate preventive actions.

This is the third reported case of PAM in Kerala since May. This rare but fatal disease has previously taken several lives in the state. What are the conditions under which one can contract this infection, and what are its symptoms? Let’s explore:

What is Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis (PAM)?

Primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM) is a rare but severe infection caused by Naegleria fowleri, a single-celled organism found in warm freshwater and soil. The amoeba enters the body through the nose, typically during swimming activities, and travels to the brain, causing significant damage and inflammation.

Naegleria fowleri thrives in temperatures up to 46 degrees Celsius and inhabits warm freshwater environments such as lakes, rivers, poorly maintained swimming pools, splash pads, surf parks, and other recreational water venues.

How Does the ‘Brain-Eating Amoeba’ Infect People?

The ‘brain-eating amoeba’ infects individuals through the nose during activities like swimming. Once inside, it migrates to the brain, destroying brain tissue and causing swelling.

Importantly, the infection cannot occur from drinking contaminated water, and it is not transmissible from person to person.

What Are the Symptoms?

Initial symptoms of PAM include headache, fever, nausea, and vomiting. As the infection progresses, symptoms can worsen to include a stiff neck, confusion, seizures, hallucinations, and eventually coma.

According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), most individuals with PAM die within 1 to 18 days after symptoms start, typically leading to coma and death within about five days.

Treatment for Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis

Currently, there are no definitive treatments for PAM. Doctors employ a combination of drugs, such as amphotericin B, azithromycin, fluconazole, rifampin, miltefosine, and dexamethasone, though these treatments have not consistently proven effective.

Past Incidents of Infection

On May 20, a five-year-old girl from Munniyoor in Malappuram died from PAM after bathing in the Munniyoor river. Additionally, a 12-year-old boy from Ramanattukara, Malappuram, remains in critical condition at Baby Memorial Hospital after developing symptoms like fever, headache, and vomiting within 5-6 days of swimming in a pond.

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Understanding the risks and symptoms associated with Naegleria fowleri can help in taking preventive measures and seeking timely medical attention.

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FAQs

1. How common is primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM)?

Primary amoebic meningoencephalitis is extremely rare. Although Naegleria fowleri is commonly found in warm freshwater environments, infections are infrequent. There have been only a few hundred reported cases globally since the amoeba was first identified.

2. What should I do to prevent Naegleria fowleri infection?

To prevent Naegleria fowleri infection, avoid swimming in warm freshwater bodies, especially during the hot months when the amoeba is most active. If swimming in such environments, use nose clips to prevent water from entering your nose. Avoid stirring up sediment in shallow, warm freshwater areas.

3. Can Naegleria fowleri infection be treated effectively?

Currently, there is no consistently effective treatment for Naegleria fowleri infection. However, early diagnosis and a combination of medications such as amphotericin B, miltefosine, and other antimicrobial agents have shown some success in a few cases. Rapid medical intervention is critical.

4. How long does it take for symptoms to appear after exposure?

Symptoms of primary amoebic meningoencephalitis typically appear between 1 to 9 days after exposure to Naegleria fowleri. Early symptoms resemble those of bacterial meningitis and include headache, fever, nausea, and vomiting. As the infection progresses, more severe symptoms like stiff neck, confusion, and seizures develop.

5. Is it safe to swim in chlorinated swimming pools?

Yes, it is generally safe to swim in properly maintained, chlorinated swimming pools. Naegleria fowleri cannot survive in well-chlorinated water. Ensure that swimming pools and recreational water venues are regularly tested and maintained to safe chlorine levels to prevent the growth of harmful microorganisms.