Thiruvananthapuram: The state has reported a sharp rise in cases of amoebic meningoencephalitis during September. According to the Health Department’s data released on Wednesday, 71 patients are currently undergoing treatment for the disease, of which 24 cases were confirmed this month alone. Of the 19 deaths recorded this year, 9 occurred in September.

Despite the rising number of infections, the exact source of the disease remains unknown, posing a major challenge to health authorities. Public water bodies and household wells have been identified as probable sources of transmission. Amoebic meningoencephalitis occurs when brain tissue is infected by pathogens such as Naegleria fowleri, Acanthamoeba, and Balamuthia mandrillaris. These organisms thrive under favourable conditions and can cause severe brain infections if they reach in large numbers. Since these amoebae can survive even in clean water, they are found in swimming pools and ponds as well.

Experts clarify that swallowing water while bathing does not lead to infection. However, if water enters the nasal passages during activities like diving, the amoeba can reach the brain. While the disease is serious, experts advise not to panic. Globally, only about 40% of cases are detected, whereas in Kerala the figure is as high as 70%, largely due to the higher number of diagnostic tests conducted here.

Identifying the exact source of infection remains difficult. Amoebae feed on coliform bacteria, and hence their presence is naturally higher in water sources where coliform levels are high. Chlorination of wells and water bodies is considered the most effective preventive measure. As the disease is not contagious like Nipah, no special protocols are required. According to health experts, the Health Department has intensified preventive steps across the state.

To better understand the pathogens and risk factors, the Health Department has initiated a comprehensive study in collaboration with the National Institute of Epidemiology (NIE), Chennai, which functions under the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). The study will analyse confirmed cases and compare them with unaffected individuals, focusing on those exposed to the same water sources.

Further genetic studies of the amoeba will be carried out in partnership with the Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru. Plans are also underway to collaborate with the Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, and JIPMER, Puducherry, to expand research on the medical parasitology aspects.

The Kerala State Pollution Control Board and the University of Kerala’s Department of Environmental Engineering will jointly examine environmental factors that support amoeba growth. Alongside, sanitation surveys of water bodies will be undertaken to prepare an action plan for preventing contamination.