'Brain-eating' amoeba outbreak in Kerala: What to know
Kerala is dealing with a worrying spike in cases of primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM), a rare but deadly infection caused by the "brain-eating" amoeba Naegleria fowleri.
In 2025 alone, there have been 160 reported cases and at least 36 deaths across several districts.
Here's what you need to know—and why it matters.
How does Naegleria fowleri infect people?
The amoeba lives in warm freshwater like lakes and poorly chlorinated pools—places many people swim or wash up, especially in Kerala.
Infection happens when contaminated water gets up your nose, letting the amoeba travel to the brain and cause rapid, severe illness.
While globally most cases are fatal, Kerala has managed to improve survival rates with quicker diagnosis and treatment.
What is being done to contain the outbreak?
The state is acting fast: suspected cases are tested quickly and treated with miltefosine, an anti-parasitic drug.
Through public awareness campaigns, officials are pushing for better chlorination of water sources and urging everyone to avoid getting stagnant water up their nose.
Enhanced monitoring and new health protocols are all part of Kerala's effort to keep people safe during this outbreak.