Kerala is grappling with a dangerous outbreak of brain-eating amoeba, reporting 67 cases and 18 deaths this year, according to the state health department. The figures were updated under the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme. In response, Health Minister Veena George has urged strict water safety measures and preventive steps to curb the spread.
Amoeba Outbreak Claims Lives
Recent cases highlight the severity of the outbreak. A 17-year-old student from Poovar, Thiruvananthapuram, contracted primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM) after swimming in the Akkulam Tourist Village pool. The pool has since been closed for testing.
In Kozhikode, a 49-year-old man, Shaji, died after an infection following a head injury, while a nine-year-old girl from Thamarassery also succumbed to the disease. Infants and elderly patients are among those affected, with several still under treatment.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, emphasising awareness and safety precautions to prevent further tragedies.