Kerala’s Kozhikode Reports Fourth Recovery from Rare Brain-Eating Amoeba

Speedy Summary

• Amoebic meningoencephalitis, a rare but fatal brain infection caused by free-living amoebae found in freshwater sources, has become a public health concern in Kerala.
• A 11-year-old girl from Chelari in Malappuram recovered from the infection after twice testing negative for traces of the disease over 15 days. She was discharged from Kozhikode Government Medical College Hospital on September 17, 2025.
• Three other patients, including two children, have also recovered and been discharged recently.
• Currently, nine patients are undergoing treatment at Kozhikode Government medical College Hospital and one patient is under care at a private hospital in Kozhikode city.
• The infection has resulted in six deaths as August 14 across the region.

Indian Opinion Analysis
The emergence of amoebic meningoencephalitis as a fatal health concern indicates potential challenges for Kerala’s public healthcare system to address rare microbial infections linked to environmental factors such as freshwater exposure. This outbreak highlights the importance of improving awareness among residents regarding preventive measures for reducing contact with potentially contaminated water sources like lakes and rivers.With four recoveries reported alongside ongoing treatments for multiple patients, local hospitals demonstrate their capacity to manage cases effectively despite high risks associated with the condition’s severity. Though, further investigation into environmental triggers and strategies to contain similar outbreaks in vulnerable regions can strengthen public health preparedness long-term.

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