Amoebic Brain Infections on the Rise: Health Alerts Across Kerala and the U.S. As Summer Heat Increases Risk

Kerala Health Minister Veena George has issued a public advisory urging vigilance against amoebic brain infections as cases rise during the summer months, citing increased risk from contaminated water sources.

The minister emphasized that amoebic meningoencephalitis, caused by microorganisms such as Naegleria fowleri and Acanthamoeba found in unclean water, poses a serious health threat, particularly during warmer weather when water-based activities increase.

Public health officials recommend avoiding bathing or washing the face with untreated water from wells, tanks, or other potentially contaminated sources, and stress the importance of regular cleaning and chlorination of water storage systems and swimming pools.

The advisory comes amid a reported surge in infections across Kerala, with health authorities monitoring the situation closely and reinforcing preventive measures to curb transmission.

Acanthamoeba and Balamuthia species are known to cause granulomatous amoebic encephalitis, a subacute to chronic form of the infection that, while still severe, may allow for relatively better survival compared to the rapid progression associated with Naegleria fowleri.

Health officials continue to advise the public to maintain strict hygiene in water use and to seek immediate medical attention if symptoms such as headache, fever, nausea, or neurological changes occur after exposure to freshwater sources.