Primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM)

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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.

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).

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.