– Brain-Eating Amoeba in Kerala
– 12-Year-Old Boy From Kozhikode Dies from Amoebic Meningoencephalitis.
Accident – Death – Obituary News : A tragic incident has occurred in Kozhikode district, resulting in the untimely death of a 12-year-old boy named EP Mridul. The young student, who attended Farook Higher Secondary School, fell victim to amoebic meningoencephalitis, a rare and often fatal brain infection caused by a free-living amoeba commonly found in contaminated water sources. This devastating news marks the third reported death in Kerala due to this severe infection since May.
The parents of the deceased, Ajith Prasad and Jyothi of Irumooliparambu, are grieving the loss of their beloved son who was admitted to a private hospital after experiencing symptoms of vomiting and headache. Following a swift diagnosis of amoebic meningoencephalitis, Mridul’s condition rapidly deteriorated, leading to his tragic passing.
Prior to falling ill, Mridul had reportedly bathed in a local pond, prompting health officials to issue warnings to the public to avoid the contaminated water source. Those who had recently visited the pond were advised to remain vigilant for any symptoms associated with the infection.
The heartbreaking loss of this young student follows the deaths of two other children from Malappuram and Kannur districts earlier this year, who also succumbed to amoebic meningoencephalitis. In May, a five-year-old girl from Malappuram lost her battle with the infection, while a 13-year-old girl from Kannur tragically passed away on June 25.
Amoebic meningoencephalitis is a rare but severe brain infection caused by amoebae, specifically the “Naegleria fowleri” and “Acanthamoeba” species. Symptoms typically manifest 1-9 days after exposure and may include headache, fever, nausea, vomiting, stiff neck, seizures, altered mental status, and hallucinations. The disease progresses rapidly, often resulting in death within 1-12 days after the onset of symptoms.
Health officials are urging the public to exercise caution when swimming in warm freshwater bodies, particularly during the summer months, to mitigate the risk of contracting such infections. It is essential to raise awareness about the dangers posed by contaminated water sources and take necessary precautions to prevent the spread of this deadly brain infection..
kerala brain-eating amoeba 12-year-old boy from kozhikode dies marking 3rd death in 2 months amoebic meningoencephalitis.
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