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Brain-Eating Amoeba Prevention: A very dangerous infection in Kerala has increased the concern of the people. It is commonly called brain-eating amoeba, while its scientific name is primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM). So far 69 cases have been registered and 19 people have died. Experts are warning that ignoring the early symptoms of infection can prove fatal, as its mortality rate is more than 90%.

What is brain-eating amoeba?

This disease is caused by a microscopic amoeba called Naegleria fowleri. This amoeba grows rapidly in hot and dirty water. It is found in ponds, lakes, rivers and dirty swimming pools. If water cleanliness and chlorine levels are not maintained properly, the risk of infection increases manifold.

How does infection occur?

According to experts, this amoeba enters the body through the nose. While swimming or bathing with dirty water, it reaches the brain through the nose. Once it reaches the brain, this serious infection causes PAM (Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis).

what are the symptoms

• fever, headache, vomiting and stiff neck
• Intolerance to bright light (photophobia)
• confusion, seizures
• gradually reaching coma

It is very important to identify these symptoms on time, because if detected late, the chances of prevention reduce.

How possible is treatment?

Treatment of PAM is difficult but not impossible. Antibiotic and antifungal medicines are used. If treatment is started on time, there is a possibility of survival. But, if there is a delay, the infection increases so rapidly that it becomes almost impossible to save the patient.

Prevention is the best solution

There is no permanent cure or vaccine for this disease. Therefore, prevention is the safest solution. Experts recommend taking the following precautions:

• Avoid swimming in dirty or untreated water.
• Always get the swimming pool cleaned with chlorine.
• Use only boiled or distilled water for cleaning the nose.
• If you notice severe headache, fever or change in behavior after contact with water, immediately contact a doctor or neurologist.
• Doctors believe that the biggest way to prevent this disease is to make people aware. Information about this disease should be given in schools, health centers and community meetings.
• Children and families should be advised to be especially cautious in summer.

So, if you also see such symptoms then become alert immediately. Doctors should also immediately suspect PAM if mental problems occur suddenly after contact with water.