Spike in fatal instances of the 'brain-consuming' amoeba triggers concern in India's Kerala region
Breaking News: Kerala Faces Increased Risk of Rare Brain Infection
Kerala, India's southern state, has reported 69 cases of a rare and potentially lethal brain infection known as primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM) since the beginning of this year. The infection, caused by the "brain-eating" amoeba Naegleria fowleri, has resulted in 28 deaths as of the latest update.
PAM is a central nervous system infection primarily found in freshwater, lakes, and rivers. In Kerala, this type of amoebic encephalitis has been on the rise, with 85 reported cases this year, a significant increase from the 36 cases and 9 deaths reported last year.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has advised caution in recreational water activities in Kerala due to the increased risk of encountering the Naegleria fowleri pathogen. The Kerala government has responded by expanding its chlorination efforts to include more wells, water tanks, public bathing areas, and other potential contact points.
Three of the PAM-related deaths in Kerala occurred in the last month, and five more have been reported in the same period. Tragically, a three-month-old infant also lost their life to the infection.
The Kerala government is working closely with health organizations to monitor the situation and implement preventive measures. The state ministry of health has issued warnings to the public about the increased risk of PAM due to climate change and increased recreational water use.
Despite the grim statistics, Kerala's advanced testing and diagnosis have contributed to a higher survival rate compared to the global average. The state's survival rate currently stands at 27%, significantly higher than the global survival rate of around 3%.
In a bid to combat the spread of PAM, the Kerala government has announced plans to invest in research and development to find new ways to combat the infection. The ministry is also actively involved in controlling the outbreak by issuing warnings and guidelines, such as advising people to avoid stirring sediment in warm freshwater and keep their heads above water in hot springs in the Kozhikode district.
The fight against PAM in Kerala continues, with the hope that advanced testing, diagnosis, and preventive measures will lead to a decrease in the number of cases and deaths in the future. Stay informed and stay safe.
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