Kerala Sees Spike in Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis Cases Amid Tougher Guidelines
Kerala Health Minister Veena George has said that the rising numbers of Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis (PAM), often called “brain-eating amoeba” infection, are largely due to higher detection rates and stricter diagnostic guidelines. She clarified that many cases earlier reported as general encephalitis are now being correctly identified as PAM.
Case Numbers Rising
As of mid-September 2025, Kerala has reported 71 confirmed PAM cases with 19 deaths. In contrast, in 2024 there were 36 cases and 9 deaths. In 2023, only a few cases were identified.
What PAM Is
PAM is caused by Naegleria fowleri, an amoeba found in warm freshwater, soil, and untreated bathing pools. Infection happens when contaminated water enters the nose, then travels to the brain. The disease progresses very rapidly and is almost always fatal unless diagnosed early. Globally, fatality rate is over 95%, but Kerala has reported about 24% survival in recent PAM cases.
Government Measures
The state has introduced strict orders to investigate all encephalitis cases for PAM. Diagnostic and treatment guidelines for PAM were officially issued in 2024. Every district in Kerala is now equipped with labs capable of diagnosing PAM. Preventive actions include water chlorination, awareness drives, and public safety advisories to avoid untreated freshwater exposure.
Public Concerns and Response
Opposition parties have raised concerns about health infrastructure and delayed responses in some areas. They argue that while guidelines exist, their implementation is uneven. Health officials have defended the response, saying early detection has saved lives and that transparency about numbers is improving.
