• The Kerala health department has issued an alert after three consecutive cases of Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis (PAM) were reported in Kozhikode district. PAM, a rare but deadly brain infection caused by the Naegleria fowleri amoeba, spreads when contaminated water enters through the nose and reaches the brain.
• The amoeba is commonly found in warm freshwater sources, hot springs, and poorly maintained swimming pools. With a mortality rate of over 95%, PAM often proves fatal within days of symptom onset, which includes headache, fever, vomiting, hallucinations, and disorientation.
• Experts advise avoiding stagnant or unclean water bodies and maintaining strict water hygiene. While certain antibiotics may help, recovery cases remain extremely rare, making early detection crucial.