Naegleria fowleri, commonly known as the brain-eating amoeba
Naegleria fowleri Naegleria fowleri, commonly known as the brain-eating amoeba, causes a deadly infection in the brain called Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis (PAM). Naegleria fowleri is an amoeba found in warm freshwater and soil. It thrives in temperatures up to 115°F (46°C). Recently, a 14-year-old boy named Mridul from Kozhikode, Kerala, tragically lost his life after contracting this disease while bathing in a small pond. This incident highlights the dangers posed by warm freshwater places across the country. Lifecycle of Naegleria Fowleri Naegleria fowleri exists in three forms: Cyst : In adverse conditions, the amoeba forms a cyst, which is resistant to environmental stresses. Trophozoite : The active feeding stage where the amoeba multiplies and consumes bacteria. Flagellate : A temporary, non-feeding form that can move in search of a more favorable environment. The trophozoite stage is the most dangerous to humans as it is the form that causes infection. How the Disea...