Amoebic Meningoencephalitis in Kerala: Experts recommend AI tech, developing testing protocol for water bodies

In the past, many in Kerala viewed Amoebic meningoencephalitis (AME) as that rare brain-eating amoeba infection that only affected those who dived into contaminated, open water bodies. Not anymore. This year, the state has had 161 AME cases so far, and it also includes 37 deaths. The patients aren't restricted to those who bathed in open water bodies; those who bathed in home well water, and even those who have no idea how they got infected, are among the patients.

Recently, a panel of experts called for a coordinated scientific action plan to handle AME. The brainstorming session was organised by the Kerala State Council for Science, Technology and Environment (KSCSTE) at Science Bhavan, Thiruvananthapuram. The session was chaired by Chief Minister's Science Advisor Dr MC Dathan, KSCSTE Executive Vice President Prof KP Sudheer, and member secretary Prof A Sabu. It was attended by experts from diverse disciplines, including clinical medicine, microbiology, public health, and environmental sciences.

Experts' observations
1) Although it has been established that AME primarily spreads through contaminated water sources, experts noted that the exact source of infection remains unidentified.
2) There is a need for collaborative scientific research across departments to trace sources, enhance diagnostic precision, and strengthen preventive strategies.

3) A standardised testing protocol should be developed for water bodies, promoting public scientific awareness, and implementing preventive and monitoring mechanisms at the community level.
4) Develop improved surveillance systems, conduct environmental assessment, and utilise artificial intelligence and modern diagnostic technologies to enhance detection and response.
(With PTI inputs)