Malappuram: A 47-year-old man from Malappuram Chelembra has died of amoebic meningoencephalitis, health officials said Thursday, marking the sixth fatality from the rare brain infection reported in Kerala within a month.

The victim, identified as Shaji, succumbed while under treatment at Kozhikode Medical College.

Last week, Shobhana, a native of Wandoor in Malappuram, died while undergoing treatment at Kozhikode Medical College Hospital.

What is Amoebic meningoencephalitis?

Amoebic meningoencephalitis is a rare infection linked to swimming or bathing in stagnant water. It is caused when amoebae such as 'Naegleria fowleri', 'Acanthamoeba', 'Sapinia', and 'Balamuthia mandrillaris' enter the brain. The organisms travel through the nasal passages or a perforated eardrum, leading to meningoencephalitis. The illness has a mortality rate of more than 97 per cent.

The disease does not spread from person to person. Infection occurs when amoebae present in mud or sediment mix with water and enter the body through the nose. Symptoms usually appear within one to nine days after exposure.

Precautions

Health experts advise against bathing in dirty pools, muddy water or sources used by animals. They urge extra caution when entering reservoirs that have not been cleaned for years. People who have undergone nasal surgery, suffered head injuries or had cranial operations are considered especially vulnerable. Those with ear infections or discharge are also advised to avoid stagnant ponds and streams.

Whenever possible, bathing or diving in stagnant water should be avoided. Swimming pools and theme parks should be properly chlorinated and maintained. Experts also recommend avoiding practices that force water into the nose; using nasal clips can help prevent water entry.

Symptoms

Early symptoms include severe headache, fever, nausea, vomiting, stiff neck and sensitivity to light. In children, signs may include loss of appetite, lethargy and unusual behaviour.

In more serious cases, patients may experience seizures, fainting and memory loss. Doctors urge anyone who develops such symptoms after swimming in stagnant water to seek immediate medical care.

Diagnosis is confirmed through a spinal fluid sample and PCR testing. Treatment involves a combination of five drugs believed to be effective against the amoeba, with early intervention improving the chances of survival.