Alappuzha native diagnosed with amoebic meningoencephalitis, condition stable

The 40-year-old woman from Arattupuzha, Alappuzha, who was recently diagnosed with primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM), is in a stable condition, according to health officials.

This is the first case reported from Arattupuzha grama panchayat and health authorities along with representatives of local bodies have initiated comprehensive preventive measures across the district.

According to health officials, the woman is currently undergoing treatment at Government Medical College, Thiruvananthapuram. A health official from Arattupuzha panchayat said the woman, who was undergoing treatment for paralysis, had her blood samples tested as part of a routine check-up.

The health official said, “The test result was positive and he has been hospitalized for the last two days. His condition is stable. There are no symptoms of the disease and he answers our questions. There is no reason to panic.”

According to Syam Kumar, Chairman of the Panchayat’s Standing Committee on Health, immediate precautionary measures are being implemented in all 18 wards of the panchayat. “Cleaning and chlorination of all water bodies in the area is ongoing,” Mr. Kumar said.

Visits body of water

Samples taken from nearby water bodies have been sent for examination, the official added. The woman, who lives in Ward 3 of Arattupuzha panchayat, has no swimming history due to her medical condition. However, he recently visited Sambranikodi in Kollam, health officials said. “He visited the waterhole during Vishu in April. Although he did not bathe in the waterhole, he had stepped into it,” an official said.

A total of 100 confirmed cases of amoebic meningoencephalitis have been reported in the state till May 5 this year, while as many as 20 deaths have been reported this year. A total of four cases and three deaths have been reported this month.