Brain eating Amoeba in Kerala leads to 19 deaths, 69 infections confirmed
Kerala Health Department has revised the figures on brain eating amoeba cases and said that 19 have dies and 69 have been infected
Kochi: In a tragic update, brain eating Amoeba in Kerala has reportedly lead to as many as 19 deaths and the number of infected people has risen up to 69.
On deaths caused by brain-eating amoeba, Dr Rajeev Jayadevan, Chairman of the Scientific Committee at IMA, Cochin, told ANI, “This is not a new infection, and it does not spread from person to person. The reason why more cases are reported this year is that Kerala is conducting additional tests for people who show symptoms of brain infection.”
It is worth mention that, “Someone with headaches, fever, and vomiting should be tested for a brain infection. When testing for a brain infection, doctors insert a needle into the spine to extract some fluid for testing. Kerala has been performing these additional tests, which are basically called a ‘wet mount,’ a direct microscopic examination for amoeba.”
The doctor further added that, “As a result, they have found amoeba in some cases of brain infection. Therefore, the total number seems higher, but it is due to increased diagnosis rather than an actual increase in cases.”
Kerala’s health authorities are on high alert due to multiple cases of Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis (PAM), a rare and often fatal brain infection caused by the Naegleria fowleri amoeba, commonly known as the “brain-eating amoeba.”
Kerala has reported multiple deaths and a cluster of Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis (PAM) cases across districts in August and September 2025, according to official sources.
“Given past reports from the state and high fatality associated with the disease, continuous vigilance, enhanced surveillance, environmental sampling, and strict IEC measures are essential. NCDC and the State Health Department are monitoring the situation closely, with laboratory confirmation and epidemiological investigations underway,” official sources said on Friday.
As Public Health Response, “Testing of febrile and symptomatic individuals across affected districts. Alert issued to Kozhikode Medical College and district hospitals.”
“Awareness campaigns in communities regarding risks of fresh water exposure. Environmental measures: Instructions issued for cleaning and chlorination of wells and public water sources.”
Sources said further in case of brain eating amoeba infections, “Fever survey is ongoing in affected localities. Sample collection from CSF, nasal swabs, and water sources is being tested. The preventive measures (Advised to Public) are to avoid swimming/bathing in ponds, rivers, or stagnant water. Ensure proper chlorination of swimming pools and water parks. Use nose clips or cover the nose when exposed to fresh water. Clean and chlorinate household wells regularly. Seek immediate medical care for any neurological or meningeal symptoms following water exposure.”
