Panic Spreads as Deadly Infection Kills 5 in 1 Month

Experts say inadequate coordination hampering containment efforts

- POOJA NAIR @Kozhikode

CONCERN is mounting in the state as the death toll of amoebic meningoencephalitis continues to climb, touching five in just one month. Experts and health officials warn that inadequate coordination between departments and delayed interventions are hampering effective containment efforts, leaving both patients and the public vulnerable.

Shobhana, 56, of Thiruvali near Wandoor in Malappuram, is the latest victim of the rare but deadly brain infection. Diagnosed on September 6, she had been under critical care at Kozhikode Medical College Hospital (MCH) and passed away on Monday. Just two days ago, Ratheesh, a resident of Sulthan Bathery, died of the disease.

Three others died over the past few weeks: A three-month-old from Omassery in Kozhikode, Ramla, 52, from Malappuram, and a nine-year-old girl from Thamarassery, who died while receiving treatment at the Institute of Maternal and Child Health, Kozhikode. Eleven patients, including children, are under observation at the Kozhikode MCH.