Kerala is facing a worrying health challenge as cases of amoebic meningoencephalitis, a rare and often fatal brain infection caused by the free-living amoeba Naegleria fowleri, continue to rise. The infection, popularly known as the “brain-eating amoeba,” enters the body through the nose and attacks the brain, leading to severe complications and often death.
In 2025, the state has reported 67 confirmed cases with 18 deaths so far, including a recently diagnosed 17-year-old boy from Thiruvananthapuram. Health officials confirmed that the pool at Akkulam Tourist Village infected the teenager, and they shut it down for testing and sanitisation. This case highlights the alarming risk of exposure from unchlorinated or stagnant water sources.
Kerala’s Health Minister, Veena George, has urged the public to exercise caution while bathing in water bodies. “Do not allow water to enter your nose when swimming or bathing in unsafe water sources,” she warned, emphasizing the importance of chlorination in wells, pools, and water storage facilities. The government has intensified awareness drives, water testing, and safety checks across districts to contain the outbreak.
Despite the deadly nature of the infection, Kerala has managed to reduce the mortality rate to 24%, significantly lower than the global average of 97%. This success is credited to early detection and prompt treatment. Still, prevention remains the biggest challenge as symptoms often resemble common illnesses like the flu or meningitis, making early diagnosis difficult.
Through campaigns like “Water is Life,” Kerala is working to improve water safety, hygiene, and awareness. However, experts stress that community vigilance is key. Avoiding stagnant water, ensuring proper chlorination, and maintaining personal hygiene can help curb the spread of this life-threatening infection.