Kerala Mourns as Rare Brain-Eating Amoeba Claims Another Life: Understanding the Threat of PAM

Kerala is once again grappling with the grim reality of primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM), a rare and almost always fatal brain infection, as a 30-year-old man from Panavally in Alappuzha district tragically succumbed to the disease. This devastating news has sent ripples of concern across the state, highlighting the persistent threat posed by this elusive 'brain-eating' amoeba.

The victim, identified as Vishnu, was admitted to Alappuzha Medical College with severe symptoms including high fever, headache, and vomiting.

Despite intensive medical intervention, his condition deteriorated rapidly, leading to his untimely demise. Health officials confirmed that preliminary tests indicated PAM, a diagnosis that typically carries a survival rate of less than 3%.

Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis is caused by the microscopic amoeba Naegleria fowleri, commonly found in warm freshwater bodies such as lakes, rivers, and poorly maintained swimming pools.

The infection occurs when contaminated water, containing the amoeba, enters the body through the nose. From there, the amoeba travels up to the brain, causing severe inflammation and destruction of brain tissue.

Symptoms usually appear within 1 to 9 days after exposure and can progress quickly.

Initially, they may resemble bacterial meningitis, including fever, severe headache, stiff neck, and vomiting. As the disease advances, individuals may experience confusion, lack of attention, seizures, hallucinations, and coma. Due to its rapid progression and non-specific early symptoms, PAM is incredibly difficult to diagnose early, which is crucial for any chance of survival.

Kerala has reported a handful of PAM cases in recent years, prompting health authorities to issue repeated warnings and guidelines for prevention.

Last year, a 15-year-old girl in Kozhikode district also died from the infection, and a 5-year-old boy in Malappuram succumbed to it in 2022. These incidents underscore the need for heightened public awareness and stringent preventive measures, especially during warmer months when the amoeba thrives.

Health experts emphasize avoiding swimming or diving in untreated warm freshwater, particularly in stagnant or shallow areas.

If freshwater exposure is unavoidable, it is crucial to use nose clips or hold the nose shut to prevent water from entering. Boiled and cooled water or chlorinated water should be used for nasal rinsing or religious ablutions if using tap water from questionable sources. While PAM is terrifying, it is important to remember it cannot be contracted by drinking contaminated water, only through nasal entry.

The death of Vishnu serves as a stark reminder of the hidden dangers lurking in our environment.

As communities mourn this tragic loss, health departments are reiterating the importance of vigilance and adherence to safety protocols to prevent further instances of this devastating, yet rare, brain infection.