Emerging cases of Naegleria fowleri infection in India: A brief report (2018-2025).

BACKGROUND

The thermophilic free-living amoeba Naegleria fowleri causes primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM), a nearly universally fatal infection. Emerging clusters in India have raised concern regarding freshwater exposure and clinical outcomes.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed reported Indian PAM cases from 2018 to 2025, sourced from peer-reviewed literature, hospital records, and verified media reports. Data on demographics, exposure, diagnostics, treatment, and outcomes were extracted and summarized in two tables.

RESULTS

Eleven cases (age range: 8 months to 47 years among cases with reported ages; age not reported for some cases) from Kolkata and Kerala were identified; exposures included ponds, lakes, water-parks, domestic water, and street-side water sources. Only two patients survived. Amphotericin B-based combinations were used, though regimens varied.

CONCLUSIONS

The increasing incidence of PAM in India underscores the need for heightened surveillance, early diagnosis, and standardized treatment protocols.