Incident Overview: A tragic case from Kozhikode, Kerala, marks the third death from a brain-eating amoeba in the state since May. The victim, EP Mridul, a class 7 student from Farook Higher Secondary School, succumbed to the infection on Wednesday night, as reported by the Kerala state health department. Mridul had been hospitalized with symptoms like vomiting and headache. Following diagnosis, doctors confirmed he was suffering from amoebic meningoencephalitis, a rare and severe brain infection caused by amoebae found in contaminated water. Before falling ill, Mridul had bathed in a pond, leading officials to warn the public to avoid the pond and for others who had recently bathed there to be alert for symptoms.
Amoebic Meningoencephalitis Strikes Again: 14-Year-Old Kozhikode Boy Succumbs
Key Facts:
– Disease: Amoebic meningoencephalitis
– Causative Organisms: Primarily *Naegleria fowleri* and *Acanthamoeba* species
– Infection Method: The amoeba typically enters the body through the nose from contaminated freshwater and migrates to the brain, where it causes inflammation by feeding on nerve tissue.
– Non-Transmissible: The infection is not spread from person to person.
– Previous Cases: The disease had previously been reported in Alappuzha district in 2017 and 2023. Symptoms:
– Onset: Symptoms usually appear 1-9 days after exposure.
– Initial Signs: Headache, fever, nausea, vomiting, and stiff neck.
– Advanced Symptoms: Seizures, altered mental status, and hallucinations.
– Progression: The disease progresses rapidly, often resulting in death within 1-12 days of symptom onset. Expert Advice: Medical professionals emphasize the importance of caution when dealing with freshwater sources, especially in areas where the amoeba has been found. Authorities have urged people to be vigilant and seek medical attention if they exhibit symptoms following exposure to potentially contaminated water. Public Reaction:
Following the report of Mridul’s death, “Kerala brain-eating amoeba” has become a trending topic on Google, with over 10,000 searches. This heightened interest underscores the public concern regarding the fatal nature of this infection.
Summary in short This tragic incident in Kozhikode is a stark reminder of the deadly potential of amoebic meningoencephalitis, urging heightened awareness and preventive measures against contaminated freshwater sources.