The terrible microorganism known as the brain-eating amoeba has gained attention due to the recent dreadful fatalities in Kerala. The public is becoming more curious and alarmed about this microscopic killer. However, what precisely is this amoeba that consumes brains, and why is it so lethal? This blog post will discuss the definition of this amoeba, how it infects people, symptoms, available treatments, and precautions.

Recent Brain-Eating Amoeba Death in Kerala: A Detailed Overview

According to state health officials, a 14-year-old boy undergoing treatment for primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM) died on Wednesday at a private hospital in Kerala. This infection is caused by Naegleria fowleri, commonly known as the “brain-eating amoeba.” The infection was traced back to a small pond where the boy had been swimming, prompting health officials to take immediate preventive measures.

This marks the third case of this infection in Kerala since May. This rare but deadly disease has previously claimed several lives in the state. Under what conditions can a person be affected by this, and what are the associated symptoms? Let’s explore:

What is Primary Amebic Meningoencephalitis (PAM)?

A single-celled bacterium called Naegleria fowleri, which grows well in warm freshwater and soil, is the cause of primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM).

People are usually infected by the amoeba through their noses while swimming. Once inside, it proceeds to the brain, where it causes inflammation and significant harm.

The amoeba is found in warm freshwater settings like lakes, rivers, unkempt swimming pools, splash pads, surf parks, and other recreational water places. It can withstand temperatures as high as 46 degrees Celsius.

How Does the “Brain-Eating Amoeba” Infect People?

Swimming is one activity where the “brain-eating amoeba” enters a human through the nose. It then makes its way to the brain, where it causes inflammation and kills brain tissue. It is crucial to understand that the virus cannot spread from person to person and cannot be contracted by drinking polluted water.

Symptoms of Infection

A headache, fever, nausea, and vomiting are some of the early signs. The symptoms might get worse as the illness spreads, including stiff necks, disorientation, convulsions, hallucinations, and finally coma. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report that most PAM patients pass away one to eighteen days after their symptoms first appear, usually five days after going into a coma.

Primary amebic meningoencephalitis treatment

Naegleria fowleri has few treatment options, so it’s important to get a diagnosis as soon as possible. Antifungal and antibacterial medications are used in conjunction as the main course of treatment. The prognosis is frequently bad with a high mortality rate even with treatment. This emphasizes how crucial it is to take preventative action and seek medical attention as soon as symptoms appear.

The definitive treatment for primary amebic meningoencephalitis is currently unavailable. A variety of medications, including as amphotericin B, azithromycin, fluconazole, rifampin, miltefosine, and dexamethasone, are used by doctors, but their efficacy has not always been demonstrated.

Safety and Preventive Advice

While Naegleria fowleri infections are rare, they are often fatal, making prevention crucial. Here are some tips to minimize risk:

• Avoid swimming in warm freshwater during high temperatures.
• Use nose clips or keep your head above water in warm freshwater.
• Avoid disturbing sediment in shallow, warm freshwater.
• Ensure that swimming pools are properly chlorinated.

Previous Cases of Infection

May 20: A five-year-old girl from Munniyoor, Malappuram, died from PAM after bathing in the Munniyoor River.

Recent Case: A 12-year-old boy from Ramanattukara, Malappuram, is in critical condition at Baby Memorial Hospital after developing symptoms such as fever, headache, and vomiting within 5-6 days of swimming in a pond.

By understanding the risks and taking preventive measures, we can help reduce the likelihood of such tragic incidents in the future. Awareness and caution are key to protecting ourselves and our loved ones from this deadly microorganism. 

Conclusion

The extremely dangerous and uncommon brain-eating amoeba, Naegleria fowleri, is a serious hazard to human health. Despite their rarity, infections are nearly always deadly.

An infection can be less likely if one knows the risks, knows what to look for, and takes preventative action. Public health protection relies heavily on awareness-building as scientists continue to investigate this dangerous amoeba.
By remaining vigilant and knowledgeable, we may endeavor to avert other tragedies brought about by this deadly bacteria.