No end to concerns, another amoebic infection confirmed in Kochi

KOCHI: Amoebic encephalitis has once again created concern in the state. The new case has been reported in Kochi. The disease was confirmed on a native of Lakshadweep residing in Edappally. This is the first time that a person has been confirmed to be infected with the disease in Ernakulam. Although the disease was confirmed in the initial examination, the hospital authorities said that his health condition is presently satisfactory. His samples have been sent for expert examination.

In 2024, 38 cases of amoebic encephalitis were reported in Kerala. Eight people succumbed to the disease. The situation is similar in 2025. Moreover, new variants of the disease have also been found. The seriousness of the problem has increased significantly. So far, 144 people have been diagnosed with the disease in the state, of which 30 have lost their lives.

Amoebic encephalitis is a disease that occurs when a pathogen belonging to the amoeba genus called Naegleria fowleri infects the brain. The most dangerous of these is the amoeba known as the ‘brain-eating amoeba.’ It can quickly destroy the brain. It usually affects people who swim or dive in stagnant water.