Thiruvananthapuram, September 2025 – The Kerala government has attributed the recent spike in primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM) cases to higher detection rates and stricter diagnostic guidelines. The clarification comes as the state reported 19 deaths from PAM this year.
Improved Detection Leads to More Reported Cases
Replying to an adjournment motion in the Assembly moved by the Congress-led United Democratic Front, Health Minister Veena George said that better diagnostic practices are resulting in more cases being classified as PAM instead of being broadly reported as encephalitis.
“This is not an epidemic. What is wrong in detecting PAM cases that would have been otherwise reported as encephalitis? Early diagnosis is very important in saving lives,” she said.
She noted that Kerala has introduced guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of PAM in 2024 and mandated thorough investigation of all encephalitis-related deaths.
Understanding PAM
PAM is caused by Naegleria fowleri, an amoeba commonly found in soil and freshwater sources such as lakes, rivers, ponds, and untreated swimming pools. The amoeba enters the body through the nose and travels to the brain, causing inflammation.
As reported by Indian Express, the disease is extremely dangerous, with a global fatality rate of around 97%. However, Kerala has managed to reduce the mortality rate to 24% through early detection and intervention.
Encephalitis, by contrast, is a general term for brain inflammation and may have multiple causes, many of which remain undetected. National studies indicate that 70% of encephalitis deaths in India go undiagnosed, but Kerala’s health department has made identifying the exact cause a priority.
Case Numbers Show a Rising Trend
According to health department data (as of 16 September):
- 2025: 71 positive cases, 19 deaths
- 2024: 36 confirmed cases, 9 deaths
- 2023: 2 cases
This significant rise underscores the impact of stricter reporting and improved laboratory facilities across all districts.
Opposition Questions Government Transparency
Indian Union Muslim League member N. Samsudheen, who moved the motion, alleged that cases are being reported across the state and accused the government of initially withholding figures.
“Only two days after allegations in the media, the government released the exact figures of PAM cases,” he said.
Preventive Steps and Future Focus
Veena George assured the Assembly that the state has taken preventive measures, including:
- District-wide microbiology labs for PAM testing
- Early detection protocols to improve survival chances
- Training healthcare workers to identify symptoms and initiate timely treatment
She reiterated that timely diagnosis remains the key to reducing fatalities and protecting public health.