In a tragic incident reported from Malappuram district in Kerala, a peculiar disease known as amoebic meningoencephalitis has claimed the life of a 5-year-old girl. The disease, a severe infection of the brain, is caused by an amoeba found in contaminated water sources.

Timeline of Events

According to sources, the girl had gone for a bath in a local pond on May 1st. By May 10th, she started showing symptoms of fever, headache, and vomiting. Her condition deteriorated rapidly, necessitating ventilator support, but medical treatment did not yield any improvement.

Details of the Case

Doctors explained that this infection occurs when a person is exposed to the free-living amoeba present in contaminated water through the nasal passages. The same pond where the girl bathed is now under scrutiny, with other children who also bathed there being monitored. Although declared infection-free now, they have been granted leave from school.

About Naegleria Fowleri

In layman's terms, Naegleria fowleri is known as the brain-eating amoeba. Prior cases have resulted in fatalities across India and other countries worldwide due to this amoeba. The disease is considered fatal in 97% of cases and is categorized as an untreatable illness that damages brain cells.

How Naegleria Fowleri Spreads

Naegleria fowleri is a type of free-living organism that does not require an ecosystem for support. It can thrive in various environments worldwide, including lakes, rivers, ponds, and warm water bodies. The infection occurs when contaminated water enters the nasal passages, allowing the amoeba to reach the brain and cause damage. This tragic incident highlights the dangers associated with inadequate water sanitation and the need for public awareness regarding the risks posed by such amoebic infections. Authorities are urged to ensure proper monitoring and sanitation measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.

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