Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis (PAM)

• Context (TH): Recently, three deaths have been reported in Kerala due to the rare and fatal infection of primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM).

About Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis (PAM)

• PAM is caused by Naegleria fowleri, an amoeba that thrives in warm freshwater lakes, ponds, rivers and poorly maintained swimming pools.
• This free-living microorganism primarily feeds on bacteria but can become pathogenic in humans.
• This one-celled organism can infect the brain and destroy the tissues, also called ‘brain-eating amoeba’.
• These rare infections are fatal, with 97% mortality. Most people die within one to 18 days.
• PAM does not spread from person to person.
• Symptoms: Headache, fever, nausea, and vomiting. Later symptoms include a stiff neck, confusion, lack of attention to people and surroundings, loss of balance, and hallucinations.
• Conditions for infection
  • During summer, swimming in lakes, ponds, or rivers can lead to infection.
  • High atmospheric temperatures and low water levels increase the probability of spread.
• The amoeba enters the body through the nose and reaches up to the brain to infect it.
• In recent cases, children are found more vulnerable to it.
• Treatment: No standard treatment methods.

About Naegleria fowleri

• It lives in warm freshwater and soil.
• Common Locations
  • Lakes and rivers.
  • Poorly maintained swimming pools.
  • Splash pads, surf parks, and other recreational venues with minimal chlorination.
• It thrives in warm temperatures up to 115°F (46°C).

How Naegleria Fowleri Infects People?

• Entry Point: Naegleria fowleri enters the body through the nose. It usually occurs while swimming.
• Pathway: Travels up to the brain.
• Effect: Destroys brain tissue and causes swelling.
• Example: Recent Kozhikode Case, the girl bathed in a local river & developed PAM symptoms and died.