NewKerala.com

Key Points

The Kerala Assembly is holding a crucial discussion about the Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis outbreak that has claimed 19 lives. Health Minister Veena George confirmed 69 cases this year while denying cluster formations in 2025. Opposition MLA N Shamsudheen accused the government of failing to implement effective preventive measures. This rare brain infection primarily spreads through contaminated freshwater sources across the state.

Key Points: Kerala Assembly Debates Amoebic Meningoencephalitis After 19 Deaths

  • Kerala Assembly debates PAM outbreak after 19 deaths this year
  • Health Minister denies cluster formation in 2025 cases
  • Opposition accuses government of inadequate preventive measures
  • Infection caused by Naegleria fowleri found in freshwater bodies
2 min read

Kerala Assembly set to discuss concerns over amoebic meningoencephalitis

Kerala Assembly discusses PAM outbreak with 69 cases and 19 fatalities. Health Minister Veena George addresses false propaganda claims amid Opposition criticism.

"Not clusters, single cases, we did have clusters, but not in 2025 - Veena George"

Thiruvananthapuram, September 17

Amid consistent demands from the Opposition parties in Kerala, the State's assembly is set to discuss concerns over Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis (PAM), which has claimed at least 19 lives in the State so far.

The assembly is set to discuss the issue at 12 noon, after an adjournment motion notice was submitted to the assembly.

Mannarkkad MLA N Shamsudheen submitted an adjournment motion notice, accusing the state government of not having effective measures to combat the disease. State's health minister Veena George said that the government is ready for a discussion on the matter, saying that "false propaganda: regarding public health is being spread in the state.

Despite several people, including Latha Kumari from Muttathara, Thiruvananthapuram, having died, the state government is not taking effective measures to prevent such diseases, the notice read.

The state health minister further said, that false propaganda is spreading regarding public health, and therefore, discussion on this issue is essential.

Minister George had clarified yesterday that there was no cluster of Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis (PAM) cases in 2025.

She also confirmed 69 PAM cases with 19 deaths so far this year, updating earlier figures.

Speaking to ANI, Veena George said, "Not clusters, single cases, we did have clusters, but not in 2025, but back in 2024. there was a cluster there because the same water source was used, here, there is no cluster, but we have cases, we have a total number of 69 cases."

Authorities like NCDC and Kerala Health Department are closely monitoring the situation amid concerns over this rare, often fatal brain infection caused by Naegleria fowleri.

Kerala has reported multiple deaths due to Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis (PAM) cases across districts in August and September 2025, according to official sources.

Primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM) is also known as naegleriasis, is a infection of the brain caused by the protozoan Nergleria fowleri. Usually people experience headache, fever, nausea, vomiting, hallucinations, seizures. The infection is typically found in fresh water bodies.

The age range of PAM cases is 3 months to 91 years, and cases reported this year are 33 males and 19 females. Kerala has previously reported cases of PAM. In 2024, cases were reported from Kozhikode, Malappuram, and Kannur districts during June-July.

- ANI

Share this article:

Reader Comments

R
Rajesh Q
Instead of blaming each other, both ruling and opposition parties should work together to find solutions. Public health should be above politics. We need better awareness campaigns in local languages about water safety precautions.
S
Sarah B
As someone who recently visited Kerala, this is concerning. The state needs to ensure tourist safety too. Proper signage at water bodies and information at hotels would help both locals and visitors stay safe.
V
Vikram M
The minister saying "no cluster in 2025" seems like playing with words. Even if cases are scattered, 69 cases and 19 deaths is alarming. Government should focus on prevention rather than defending their record.
A
Anjali F
This disease affects people across all ages - from 3 months to 91 years! That's terrifying. Our public health system needs to be more proactive. Regular water testing in vulnerable areas should be mandatory.
M
Michael C
Kerala has excellent healthcare infrastructure compared to other states. They should leverage their medical colleges and research institutions to develop better detection and treatment protocols for this rare infection.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50