Kerala on high alert amid brain-eating Amoeba crisis, death toll rises to 18

Kerala is confronting a public health challenge with a spike in infections from the brain-eating amoeba, Naegleria fowleri. Over the past month, 18 deaths have been reported, and at least 67 people have been infected so far. The amoeba causes Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis (PAM), a rare and rapidly progressing brain infection that is often fatal. It is found in warm, stagnant freshwater like ponds, lakes, and poorly maintained swimming pools, entering the body through the nose. The rising cases have led the opposition to target the state's health department's response. In reply, Kerala Health Minister Veena George outlined preventive measures, urging the public to avoid untreated water sources. As there is no effective cure, the report stresses that “prevention is your best bet,” advising against swimming in warm, untreated freshwater and recommending that pools be well-maintained.