In Focus by The Hindu Why is Kerala seeing a spike in brain-eating amoeba infections?
Sep 6, 2025
In this intriguing discussion, Dr. Aravind Reghukumar, Head of Infectious Diseases at Government Medical College Thiruvananthapuram, shares insights on the alarming spike in brain-eating amoeba infections in Kerala. He explains how the Naegleria fowleri amoeba infiltrates the body and the challenges in diagnosis and treatment. The conversation highlights the influence of climate change on these infections and underscores the need for robust public health initiatives and community awareness to combat this deadly threat.
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What Makes PAM So Deadly
- Primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM) is extremely rare but highly fatal, with global mortality near 98–99%.
- Naegleria fowleri is a thermophilic freshwater amoeba that infects via the nose and thrives at 30–45°C.
Fast Progression Requires Fast Action
- Infection requires water forced into the nose so the amoeba can cross the cribriform plate into the brain.
- Incubation is short (about 7 days) and death often occurs within 7–14 days without early targeted treatment.
Different Amoebae, Different Risks
- Other free-living amoebae (Acanthamoeba, Balamuthia, etc.) cause granulomatous disease with slower courses.
- These species differ in ecology and host risk, so diagnosis windows and outcomes vary widely.