Story perspectives

Kerala Battles Deadly Brain-Eating Amoeba: 19 Lives Lost

9/21/2025

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Summary

Story summary

In 2025, Kerala reported 69 infections and 19 deaths from the brain-eating amoeba, Naegleria fowleri, which has a 97% fatality rate.
Symptoms mimic bacterial meningitis, complicating diagnosis.
Infection occurs through contaminated water entering the nose and is not transmissible between people.
The state government is implementing mass chlorination and advising precautions.
Naegleria fowleri thrives in warm freshwater and causes severe brain inflammation.

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Story summary

In 2025, Kerala reported 69 infections and 19 deaths from the brain-eating amoeba, Naegleria fowleri, which has a 97% fatality rate.
Symptoms mimic bacterial meningitis, complicating diagnosis.
Infection occurs through contaminated water entering the nose and is not transmissible between people.
The state government is implementing mass chlorination and advising precautions.
Naegleria fowleri thrives in warm freshwater and causes severe brain inflammation.