Google trend - Kerala brain-eating amoeba

Kerala brain-eating amoeba - 10 things to know with detail

• Naegleria fowleri, commonly known as the brain-eating amoeba, is a single-celled organism that can cause a rare and often fatal infection of the brain known as primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM).
• The amoeba is typically found in warm freshwater environments such as lakes, rivers, and hot springs. It can also be found in soil and poorly maintained swimming pools.
• In Kerala, India, cases of PAM caused by Naegleria fowleri have been reported in recent years. The state has seen a rise in cases during the monsoon season when water levels are higher and temperatures are warmer.
• The amoeba enters the body through the nose, usually when a person swims or dives in contaminated water. From there, it travels to the brain where it causes inflammation and destruction of brain tissue.
• Symptoms of PAM typically start within a few days of infection and can include headache, fever, nausea, vomiting, and stiff neck. As the infection progresses, symptoms can worsen to include confusion, hallucinations, seizures, and coma.
• PAM is a rare infection, but it is almost always fatal. The mortality rate is estimated to be around 97%, with most deaths occurring within a week of symptoms appearing.
• There is currently no effective treatment for PAM. Antifungal medications and antibiotics have been used in some cases, but their effectiveness is limited. Early diagnosis and aggressive supportive care are crucial in improving outcomes.
• The best way to prevent infection with Naegleria fowleri is to avoid swimming or diving in warm freshwater environments where the amoeba may be present. If swimming in such waters is unavoidable, it is recommended to use nose clips or hold your nose shut to prevent water from entering the nasal passages.
• It is also important to properly maintain swimming pools and hot tubs to prevent the growth of Naegleria fowleri and other harmful microorganisms. Regularly cleaning and disinfecting pools, ensuring proper filtration and circulation, and maintaining appropriate chlorine levels can help reduce the risk of infection.
• Public health authorities in Kerala have taken measures to raise awareness about the risks of Naegleria fowleri infection and to educate the public on how to prevent it. These efforts include issuing guidelines for safe swimming practices, monitoring water quality in recreational areas, and providing information on the symptoms and treatment of PAM.