Kerala Says Rise in PAM Cases Due to Better Diagnosis |

The Kerala government has clarified that the recent increase in reported Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis (PAM) cases is not due to a sudden outbreak but improved detection methods and stricter medical guidelines.

Many cases earlier classified as encephalitis are now being correctly diagnosed as PAM, caused by the rare brain-eating amoeba Naegleria fowleri.

With 19 deaths reported in 2025, health experts stress that timely diagnosis, public awareness, and preventive steps are vital to reduce risks.