Epidemiology Of Naegleria Fowleri-Caused Meningoencephalitis Across And The Globe And India: A Review Of An Emerging Infectious Disease

Naegleria fowleri, a deadly organism that causes Primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM), has a worldwide distribution. This disease has claimed around 300 lives globally, and survivors of this infection are rare. The organism thrives in warm environments, can withstand high temperatures, and multiplies in hotter months of the year. It is mainly found in aquatic habitats and soil. Over four hundred cases of PAM have been reported across the world. In India, there have been twenty reported cases from several parts of the country, and the infection has shown a growing trend. The majority of the cases identified in India were fatal, and the disease mostly affected children and young adults. Naegleria fowleri can be detected through Cerebro-Spinal Fluid (CSF) culture and Polymerase chain techniques. Control measures include chlorination, identification of the source, controlling pollution, and global warming. Keywords : Naegleria fowleri, Primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM), Global, India, Infectious, Disease