Rare and fatal brain-eating amoeba infection reported in Kerala. Health Minister Veena George urged people to follow safety precautions. Thiruvananthapuram : Amid reports about a surge in dengue and malaria cases in the country, Kerala Health Minister Veena George on Monday issued a warning about rising amoebic meningoencephalitis cases (rare brain-eating amoebic infection) in the state.
In a media conference, the state's chief minister urged the public to take precautions following confirmed cases of amoebic meningoencephalitis in the city. "People using stagnant water for bathing or washing animals should be cautious. Seek medical attention if severe headaches, fever, nausea, vomiting, or neck stiffness occur after contact with such water," George said in the press meeting.
She further added, "Awareness efforts and preventive measures are being intensified. The Health Department has released national guidelines on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of the disease". Amoebic Meningoencephalitis: What Is This New Infection? Amoebic Meningoencephalitis, also known as AME, is a rare yet dangerously lethal brain infection caused by the Naegleria fowleri amoeba.
This thin, minuscule organism thrives in warm freshwater environments like lakes, rivers, and hot springs. According to experts, naegleria fowleri enters the body via the nose, typically when people inhale contaminated water during swimming or diving. Once inside the nasal passages, the amoeba migrates to the brain, causing inflammation and severe brain tissue damage.
The infection progresses rapidly, resulting in severe symptoms and can be fatal if not treated promptly. Follow TheHealthSite.com for all the latest health news and developments from around the world.
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