Rare brain-eating disease detected in Kerala

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Rare brain-eating disease detected in Kerala

A rare brain-eating disease has been on an alarming rise for the past few weeks in Kerala. This rare disease is caused by Naegleria fowleri, a type of amoeba found in water and soil. These single-celled organisms are found in warm freshwater and cause a serious brain infection known as primary amebic encephalitis (PAM). Its mortality is very high, with 21 deaths and 80 infected by mid-September. The route of entry is the nose and affects the brain.

The early symptoms include

  • Headache

  • Neck stiffness

  • Fever

  • Nausea and voting

Late symptoms are

  • Confusion

  • Hallucination

  • Seizure

  • Loss of balance

  • Coma

As it is a life-threatening disease, it is crucial to raise public awareness and take preventive measures, include:

  • Avoid warm freshwater exposure, such as swimming in ponds, lakes, and hot springs

  • Use boiled or sterile water for nose rinsing.

  • Ensure chlorination of water.

  • Clean the water tanks and boil water before drinking

  • Avoid stirring up the sediments in the pond or lake, as amoeba dwells in sediments

  • Temperature change is a major reason, as warm water promotes the growth of Naegleria fowleri

What is your opinion on the sudden outbreak of such a fatal disease in Kerala? Share your thoughts?

MBH/AB

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Need to be more cautious

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The sudden outbreak of Naegleria fowleri in Kerala is deeply concerning, highlighting the need for heightened public awareness and strict water safety measures. Preventive steps like avoiding warm freshwater exposure and ensuring clean, chlorinated water are crucial to curb the spread of this fatal infection.

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Scary but important! Shows how even natural water sources can pose hidden dangers — prevention and awareness can truly save lives

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The Naegleria fowleri outbreak in Kerala is worrying. People should be cautious with water, recognise the early symptoms, and seek medical attention promptly.

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Yeah, it is very unfortunate that we lost a 9-year-old girl because of this infection last week and a poor doctor attacked with a machete alleging improper treatment. Kerala of course is very literate and advanced in health sector. But is now beaming with a lot of rare infections, including Nipa.

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This outbreak is really concerning! :worried: Although Naegleria fowleri is uncommon, awareness is crucial due to its high fatality rate. Life-saving precautions include avoiding warm freshwater, using boiled or sterile water, and properly chlorinating. :ocean: Authorities should give water safety campaigns top priority, and communities must remain informed. It serves as a sobering reminder of the potential health effects of environmental changes. How can communities effectively raise awareness before more cases happen?

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Yes, I’m aware of that mishap. Unfortunately, a proper treatment is still not available for both fatal diseases.

It’s high time that a definitive treatment is discovered, as this could help save many lives. The government should not limit their actions during the period of the outbreak. There should be continuous surveillance and preventive measures in place to control the spread of such deadly diseases.

In both cases, climate change also plays a significant role in influencing their occurrence and spread.