Amoebic Meningoencephalitis Claims Fifth Life in Kerala; 11 Undergoing Treatment
Kozhikode, Kerala: The state of Kerala has reported another fatality due to amoebic meningoencephalitis, bringing the total number of deaths at Kozhikode Medical College to five. M. Shobhana, a 56-year-old resident of Vandoor Thiruvali, succumbed to the rare and severe brain infection while undergoing treatment at the institution. Shobhana was admitted to the hospital in a critical condition.
Currently, 11 individuals are receiving treatment for amoebic meningoencephalitis across the state. Reports indicate that a native of Wayanad is among those in critical condition. With the increasing number of reported cases, the Health Department has issued directives to local bodies, urging them to intensify preventive measures to curb the spread of the disease.
Shobhana’s death marks the fifth such fatality in Kerala recently due to amoebic meningoencephalitis. Previously, Rathish (45) from Sultan Bathery, Wayanad, also died at Kozhikode Medical College Hospital from the same illness. Other reported victims include a three-month-old infant from Omassery, Kozhikode; Ramla (52) from Kannamangalam Cheroor Kappil Kanneth in Malappuram; and Anaya (9) from Thamarassery, Kozhikode. The recurring incidents highlight a serious public health concern, prompting urgent action from health authorities to implement robust control strategies.