New Delhi: The brain-eating Amoeba continues to be a health concern in Kerala, with two more cases being confirmed in the state’s capital Thiruvananthapuram. Following the confirmation of these cases, there has been a growing risk and panic situation among the people of the affected area.
In July, Kerala also witnessed the deaths of three children due to the infection caused by the brain-eating amoeba also known as Naegleria fowleri. Earlier to this, four cases of primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM) have been diagnosed out of which four were deadly, according to media reports.
What is a brain-eating Amoeba?
A brain-eating amoeba is a rare but serious infection caused by Naegleria fowleri which is a free-living amoeba that thrives in warm freshwater conditions or areas like lakes, ponds or poorly maintained swimming pools. Dr Manish Chhabaria, Consultation – Neurology, Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital, Mumbai in an earlier conversation with News9 said, one of the most common ways of getting infected by this organism is when the infected water enters into the nose and from this, the amoeba travels to the brain.
How is the disease spreading in Kerala?
Over the past two months, 14 people were found to be infected with the infection. However, out of them 10 people were successfully treated and were discharged from the hospital two weeks ago, while a 38-year-old person died last Sunday in the Kasargod district.
As per reports, the disease is commonly spread via contaminated water and after the cases were reported, the health officials urged people to be careful and to be completely aware of the disease. People in the area have been asked to stay cautious while staying in the water or while swimming.
Ways to prevent yourself from the brain-eating amoeba
Dr Chhabaria also shared some easy ways to stay protected and prevent yourself from the infection:
- If you notice any symptoms of fever or headaches try to immediately get medical attention.
- Do not swim, wade or do watersports in the warm of freshwater areas. Especially avoid the still waters.
- Do not swim without nose plugs
- Do not use tap water for a neti pot or other device that cleans the nasal passage area.
- Use only distilled or sterilised water
- Make sure you boil water before drinking if you use tap water.
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