Following a number of cases of the rare but often fatal brain-eating amoeba infection in neighbouring Kerala, Tamil Nadu’s Health Department has urged strict maintenance of swimming pools and water theme parks to prevent the spread of Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis (PAM).
The disease is rare but highly fatal. Its early symptoms resemble meningitis, making timely diagnosis difficult.
Tamil Nadu’s Health Minister Ma Subramanian had previously cautioned the public about the issue in August. However, Director of Public Health A Somasundaram has clarified that the disease is not contagious, and therefore, there is no need for panic or measures such as border checks. The department has instead advised close monitoring of swimming pools and urged the public to rely only on safe water for bathing and drinking. Deputy Director of Health Services for Coimbatore, P Balusamy, said health inspectors across districts have been instructed to ensure cleanliness in all pools and recreational water facilities.
With large numbers of people travelling between Tamil Nadu and Kerala for the festive season, health officials have reminded the public to be vigilant and have issued a comprehensive advisory:
Do not use unsafe water: Avoid bathing, swimming, or diving in dirty, stagnant water, including ponds, lakes, rivers, or poorly maintained swimming pools. The amoeba is said to thrive in such environments, particularly by stirring up sediment in shallow areas. Always use treated or chlorinated water for bathing and drinking. When rinsing nasal passages, use only distilled or boiled water. Consider using nose clips to prevent water from entering the nasal passages during water activities.
Observe symptoms: Be vigilant for early signs of PAM, which include headache, fever, nausea, vomiting, and a stiff neck. Seek immediate medical attention if symptoms worsen.
Officials said these measures are part of an ongoing monitoring effort, alongside a standing advisory for medical practitioners to watch for PAM symptoms.
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