Home / Health / Brain-Eating Amoeba Claims First Life in Karachi
Brain-Eating Amoeba Claims First Life in Karachi
8 Jul
Summary
- First Naegleria fowleri death reported this year in Karachi.
- Victim contracted infection from contaminated tap water.
- Experts urge chlorination of water tanks to prevent spread.
A 44-year-old resident of Karachi has died from Naegleria fowleri, commonly known as the "brain-eating amoeba." This marks the first reported death from Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis (PAM) in the city this year. The victim, who had no history of swimming, is believed to have contracted the deadly infection from contaminated, non-chlorinated tap water used at his residence.
He was admitted to a private hospital on July 5 with symptoms including high fever and seizures. Despite receiving ventilator support, his condition rapidly deteriorated, leading to his death. Experts state that Naegleria fowleri thrives in warm, stagnant freshwater and cannot survive in adequately chlorinated water. The lack of chlorination in Karachi's water supply has been a persistent issue.
Health officials and the Pakistan Medical Association are urging residents to take preventative measures. These include adding chlorine tablets to water tanks, ensuring water is boiled before drinking, and avoiding the use of polluted water for washing or bathing. Regular cleaning of water tanks is also recommended to mitigate the risk of infection, which is fatal in approximately 98% of cases.
