Karachi has recorded its first confirmed death from the brain-eating amoeba, Naegleria fowleri, this year. A 44-year-old resident of Korangi, a father of two, succumbed to the rare but almost always fatal infection days after being diagnosed, according to hospital officials.
Patient Admitted with Severe Symptoms
The patient was admitted to a private hospital on July 5 with high fever, severe headache, and neurological complications. Following medical examinations and diagnostic tests, he was confirmed positive for Naegleria fowleri on July 6. The infection caused severe brain inflammation, leading to a rapid deterioration of his condition. He was shifted to the intensive care unit on a ventilator, where he later died.
Family Struggles with Treatment Costs
Family members reported that they had been trying to transfer him to another hospital due to mounting treatment costs, but he passed away before the transfer could take place. They also stated that the patient had no recent history of traveling outside Karachi or abroad and had not visited any swimming pool or water park. They believe he may have contracted the infection after contaminated water entered his nose while performing ablution.
Health Department Data
According to the Sindh Health Department, seven cases of Naegleria fowleri were reported last year. This is the first confirmed case and the first death recorded in the province this year. Health experts emphasize that Naegleria fowleri is a highly dangerous amoeba that typically thrives in warm freshwater. It enters the body through the nose, reaches the brain, and causes a severe infection known as primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM), which progresses rapidly and has no effective treatment.
Preventive Measures Advised
Experts have advised residents to ensure proper chlorination of household water tanks and stored water, as adequate chlorine levels are effective in preventing the growth of Naegleria fowleri. The public is urged to avoid activities that may allow water to enter the nose, especially when using untreated or poorly chlorinated water.
