Kerala Woman Dies of Rare ‘Brain-Eating’ Amoeba as Fifth Case in One Month Alarms Health Officials

A 56-year-old woman from Malappuram, Kerala, has died from a rare and deadly brain infection caused by a “brain-eating” amoeba. Health officials confirmed her death on Monday, making her the fifth person to die from the infection in just one month.

The woman, M Shobhana from Wandoor, was admitted to Kozhikode Medical College Hospital last Thursday in a critical and unconscious state. Doctors said her condition worsened quickly, and she did not respond to treatment.

The infection, known as primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM), is caused by a microscopic organism called Naegleria fowleri. It usually lives in warm freshwater like lakes, ponds, and rivers. It enters the body through the nose and travels to the brain, where it causes serious damage.

Just last week, a 45-year-old man from Wayanad, also being treated at the same hospital, died from the same infection. Two other recent victims included a three-month-old baby and a nine-year-old girl from Kozhikode district.

So far, the districts of Kozhikode, Malappuram, and Wayanad have reported the highest number of cases. In total, Kerala has recorded 42 confirmed cases this year.

The Kerala Health Department has now activated the State Public Health Act to fight the spread of the disease. Officials have launched a state-wide water cleaning campaign, asking local bodies to clean wells, tanks, and other water sources. Swimming in untreated or still water has also been banned in the worst-affected areas.

Authorities are urging the public to take symptoms seriously—especially fever, headache, or vomiting after contact with freshwater. Quick medical help is key.

Though this infection is rare, it is often fatal. Experts say it’s important to avoid swimming in warm, untreated water and to keep your nose protected during water activities.