9-Year-Old Girl Dies of ‘Brain-Eating Amoeba’ in Kerala, Fourth Fatal Case Reported
Kozhikode, Kerala – August 18, 2025 — In a deeply concerning development, a nine-year-old girl from Thamarassery, Kozhikode district, has died after being infected by a rare “brain-eating amoeba” (Naegleria fowleri). This marks the fourth fatal case reported in Kerala this year, sparking alarm among health authorities and residents about the dangers of contaminated freshwater bodies.
What Happened?
The child had reportedly been swimming in a local pond days before her health condition deteriorated. She developed fever, severe headache, vomiting, and seizures, classic symptoms of Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis (PAM), the infection caused by Naegleria fowleri.
Doctors confirmed the infection, but despite intensive treatment, the girl succumbed to the illness.
Understanding the Brain-Eating Amoeba
Naegleria fowleri is a microscopic amoeba found in warm freshwater sources, such as ponds, lakes, and poorly maintained water tanks. The organism typically infects humans when contaminated water enters the body through the nose, allowing it to travel to the brain.
The condition it causes, PAM, is extremely rare but nearly always fatal, with a survival rate of less than 5%.
Kerala’s Fourth Death in 2025
This incident follows three other deaths reported earlier this year across Kerala due to the same amoeba. Experts warn that climate change, rising water temperatures, and increased human exposure to untreated water bodies could be contributing to the spread.
Local authorities have begun awareness drives, urging people to:
- Avoid swimming in untreated or stagnant water.
- Use nose clips when swimming.
- Ensure proper chlorination of water tanks and pools.
What Health Officials Say
Speaking to media outlets, health officials emphasized that the amoeba cannot infect by drinking water; infection occurs only when water enters the nasal passage. They have also reassured the public that while fatal, cases remain extremely rare.
Global and National Context
While India has seen sporadic cases in recent years, infections caused by Naegleria fowleri have been reported globally, including in the United States, Pakistan, and Australia. Kerala’s recent spike, however, makes it a regional public health concern.
Conclusion
The tragic death of the nine-year-old girl underscores the urgent need for public awareness and preventive measures against Naegleria fowleri. As Kerala mourns yet another young life lost, health officials are working to contain risks and educate communities on how to stay safe.
