12-Year-Old Boy Recovers from Meningoencephalitis

A 12-year-old boy named Ajsal from Thrissur has made a remarkable recovery from amoebic meningoencephalitis, a severe brain infection caused by the free-living amoeba Vermamoeba vermiformis. Initially admitted for fever on June 1, Ajsal's condition deteriorated, requiring transfers to multiple hospitals, including a critical stay at Amrita Hospital. After receiving intensive treatment, including ventilator support and physiotherapy, he regained mobility and was discharged on July 29. Medical professionals highlighted the swift nature of his recovery, which is particularly notable given the high mortality rate associated with this infection. Meanwhile, new cases of amoebic meningoencephalitis have emerged in Kerala, including a four-year-old boy in Kozhikode, underscoring the ongoing health risks posed by this disease. The state health department's guidelines on prevention and treatment are now seen as crucial in addressing this alarming trend.