Kerala has recorded its fourth case of amoebic meningoencephalitis, a rare brain infection caused by a free-living amoeba found in contaminated waters. A 14-year-old boy from Payyoli is the latest victim, according to sources at the private hospital where he is being treated. This marks the fourth case in the state since May, with all patients being children. Tragically, three of them have already succumbed to the infection.
The boy, admitted on July 1, is reportedly showing signs of improvement. One of his doctors confirmed that the infection was identified quickly, and treatment, including imported medicines, was initiated immediately. Previously, a 14-year-old boy died on Wednesday from the same infection. A five-year-old girl from Malappuram died on May 21 and a 13-year-old from Kannur June 25, were also infected with the same disease
In response, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan held a meeting on Friday to discuss preventive measures. Suggestions included avoiding bathing in unclean water bodies, ensuring proper chlorination of swimming pools, and advising children to be cautious when entering water bodies. The chief minister emphasized the importance of keeping water bodies clean and recommended using swimming nose clips to prevent infection.
Medical experts explained that the infection occurs when free-living, non-parasitic amoebae enter the body through the nose from contaminated water. This rare disease was previously reported in Kerala's coastal Alappuzha district in 2023 and 2017.
The state's health authorities are on high alert, and public awareness campaigns are being intensified to educate residents about the risks and necessary precautions to prevent further cases of this deadly infection.
