Archive · 19 Sep 2025
Kerala's Amoebic Meningoencephalitis Cases on the Rise
A dangerous brain infection called Amoebic Meningoencephalitis, caused by a brain-eating amoeba, is spreading in Kerala, India.
The amoeba enters the brain through the nose when people swim in warm freshwater.
Symptoms include fever and meningitis-like symptoms.
In 2024, 71 cases have been reported.
Kerala has a much lower death rate of around 30% compared to the global average of over 95% due to early detection.
The state is increasing awareness about preventing the disease, and may link to climate change and rising pollution, contributing to increased cases.
Kerala is seeing a rise in Amoebic Meningoencephalitis cases.
The disease is caused by the Naegleria fowleri amoeba.
71 cases and 19 deaths have been reported in Kerala in 2024.
Kerala's mortality rate is around 30%, significantly lower than the global rate of over 95%.
Health officials are raising awareness of the disease and ways to prevent it, including chlorinating water bodies.
- Who
- People exposed to contaminated freshwater.
- What
- Increase in Amoebic Meningoencephalitis cases in Kerala.
- When
- 2024
- Where
- Kerala, India and cases reported in other states.
- Why
- Caused by the Naegleria fowleri amoeba.
- Disease
- Amoebic Meningoencephalitis
- Cause
- Naegleria fowleri amoeba
- Location
- Kerala, India
- Cases Reported (2024)
- 71
- Deaths (2024)
- 19
- Mortality Rate (Kerala)
- Approximately 30%
- Global Mortality Rate
- Over 95%
Sources
How a brain-eating amoeba is claiming lives in Kerala
Rare but ruthless: How a deadly brain-eating amoeba claims 19 lives in Kerala - Telegraph India
'I cannot believe my daughter is gone': Mother's grief as deadly amoeba spreads in Kerala
Kerala Sees 19 Deaths from Brain- Eating Amoeba: What It Is, Signs, and How to Stay Safe
Never Swim in Freshwater, Warns India’s Top Doctor as Brain-Eating Amoeba Cases Rise in Kerala
Deadly Brain-Eating Amoeba Reported In Kerala Could Be Around Us Too: Here's How To Stay Safe
Brain-Eating Amoeba Kill 95% Globally, Kerala Has Kept Death Rate Below 30%: Top Health Official
