Kerala is grappling with a growing health crisis as two more individuals, including a three-month-old infant, succumbed to amoebic meningoencephalitis, a rare and deadly brain infection, at Kozhikode Medical College Hospital, health officials confirmed on September 1, 2025. The deaths, reported on Sunday, bring the toll from this infection in August to three, intensifying concerns in the state where 42 cases have been recorded this year. The Health Department is ramping up preventive measures to curb the spread of this lethal disease, which is primarily contracted through contaminated water.

The infant, the son of Abubacker Siddique from Omassery in Kozhikode district, had been battling the infection for a month in the hospital’s ICU. Despite medical efforts, his condition deteriorated rapidly, leading to his death on Sunday. The second victim, Ramla, a 52-year-old woman from Kappil in Malappuram district, first showed symptoms on July 8. Initially treated at a private hospital, she was transferred to Kozhikode Medical College as her condition worsened, but she could not be saved. These tragedies follow the death of a nine-year-old girl from Thamarassery on August 14, also due to the same infection.

Currently, eight other patients from Kozhikode, Malappuram, and Wayanad districts are under treatment at the hospital, with officials closely monitoring their conditions. Amoebic meningoencephalitis, caused by the Naegleria fowleri amoeba, is typically contracted through swimming or bathing in contaminated freshwater sources like ponds, lakes, or inadequately chlorinated pools. The infection, which has a fatality rate of over 95%, rapidly attacks the brain, causing severe symptoms like fever, headache, and seizures.

Also Read: Kim Jong Un Inspects Missile Factory Ahead of China Visit

In response to the alarming rise in cases, the Kerala Health Department has launched urgent measures, including chlorination of wells and water storage tanks across Kozhikode, Wayanad, and Malappuram districts. Public awareness campaigns are also underway to educate residents about the risks of contaminated water and preventive steps, such as avoiding untreated water bodies and ensuring proper water treatment. Health officials are urging vigilance, particularly in rural areas where water sources may be vulnerable to contamination.

The recurring cases have sparked widespread concern in Kerala, with the Health Department emphasizing the need for community cooperation to prevent further infections. As the state battles this rare but deadly disease, efforts to strengthen water safety protocols and raise awareness are critical to averting more tragedies in the affected regions.

Also Read: Activist Jarange Threatens to Stop Drinking Water as Strike Hits Day 4!