Alarm in India's health sector as cases of a destructive amoeba increase
In the southern Indian state of Kerala, a worrying increase in cases of the Naegleria fowleri amoeba has been reported this year. As of now, 19 deaths and 72 infections have been recorded, marking a significant surge compared to the previous year.
This rare amoeba, often referred to as the 'brain-eating amoeba' by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), is primarily found in warm lakes and rivers. It is contracted when contaminated water enters the nose, making it a water-borne pathogen.
Dr. Altaf Ali, a doctor in a government task force, is leading large-scale tests to detect and treat cases of the Naegleria fowleri amoeba in Kerala. The search results do not provide information about the timeframe for these tests or the leader of the working group on Naegleria fowleri.
India has issued a health alert due to a doubling of Naegleria fowleri amoeba infections and deaths compared to last year. In September alone, nine deaths and 24 cases were reported, a stark contrast to the nine deaths out of 36 reported cases last year.
New cases of the Naegleria fowleri amoeba have emerged from across the state, as opposed to specific pockets in the past. This widespread occurrence has raised concerns about the source and cause of these infections and deaths in India.
Infections by the Naegleria fowleri amoeba are 'very rare but nearly always fatal', according to the CDC. If it reaches the brain, the amoeba can cause an infection that kills over 95 percent of those affected.
Since 1962, nearly 500 cases of the Naegleria fowleri amoeba have been reported worldwide, mostly in the United States, India, Pakistan, and Australia. Despite its rarity, the recent surge in Kerala has prompted urgent action and extensive testing to contain and treat the outbreak.
It is important to note that the Naegleria fowleri amoeba does not spread from person to person. As always, it is crucial to prioritise personal hygiene and water safety, especially when swimming or engaging in activities near bodies of water.
As the situation continues to evolve, updates on the progress of the tests and the status of the outbreak in Kerala will be closely monitored. The hope is that through Dr. Altaf Ali's efforts and the collective efforts of the government task force, the spread of the Naegleria fowleri amoeba can be effectively managed and controlled.
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