Kerala sees fresh amoebic encephalitis case; officials heighten preventive action as origin remains unknown

Kozhikode, Kerala: A case of amoebic meningoencephalitis was confirmed in the state on Thursday. The case involves Fathima Beevi (45), a resident of Perumanna Grama Panchayat. She is currently undergoing treatment at Kozhikode Medical College Hospital.

Fathima Beevi began suffering from fever about a month ago. She initially sought treatment at the Perumanna Family Health Centre and later at several private hospitals in Kozhikode. As the fever persisted, she was referred from a private hospital to the Government Beach Hospital in Kozhikode. Following preliminary tests at the Beach Hospital, a meningoencephalitis case was suspected. Only after this was she transferred to Kozhikode Medical College Hospital for further treatment.

Fathima Beevi lives with her husband, four children, and three grandchildren. The family has been living there for over three months. They had purchased a partially constructed house and moved in once the construction was completed. The house, situated beside a tarmacked pocket road, has a well in the front yard. The well is partially covered, with the remaining section shielded using iron sheets.

Fathima Beevi’s daughter had been admitted to a private Ayurvedic hospital in Kottakkal, Malappuram, for maternity care, and Fathima Beevi had stayed with her for around nine days. According to the family, the fever started after her return from Kottakkal.

It has not yet been confirmed where the infection source.

In light of the confirmed case of amoebic meningoencephalitis, a meeting was held at the Perumanna Family Health Centre under the leadership of health workers, Perumanna Grama Panchayat officials, and Haritha Kerala Mission representatives to intensify preventive measures. The panchayat authorities have recommended suspending swimming activities in both public and private ponds within the panchayat limits.