Kerala battles surge in deadly amoeba

KERALA is witnessing an alarming spike in amoebic meningoencephalitis infections, but uncertainty over the exact mode of transmission baffles health experts and prevents authorities from taking effective preventive measures.

- POOJA NAIR @ Kozhikode

The rare and often fatal infection, caused by the Naegleria fowleri amoeba that attacks the brain, has so far claimed 17 lives this year in the state with seven deaths reported in September alone.

Generally, the infection affects only those who had bathed or swum in ponds, lakes, or swimming pools, where water could inadvertently enter the nose and allow the amoeba to reach the brain.