Why in news?
Health authorities in Kerala raised alarm over the detection of Acanthamoeba in several water bodies. The organism can cause serious infections in the eyes and brain, especially among contact‑lens users and people with weak immune systems.
What is Acanthamoeba?
Acanthamoeba is a microscopic single‑celled protozoan found worldwide in soil, fresh water and tap water. It exists in two forms: an active feeding stage (trophozoite) and a dormant, hardy cyst stage that resists chlorine and disinfectants. In most people it causes no problems, but under certain conditions it can infect humans.
Diseases and symptoms
- Acanthamoeba keratitis: An infection of the cornea, often linked to improper contact‑lens hygiene. Symptoms include eye pain, redness, blurred vision and sensitivity to light. If untreated it can cause scarring and vision loss.
- Granulomatous amoebic encephalitis: A rare but severe infection of the brain and spinal cord that usually affects people with weakened immunity. Early signs are headaches, fever and neurological problems. It is difficult to treat and often fatal.
Prevention and treatment
- Maintain strict contact‑lens hygiene: clean and replace lenses as directed, avoid wearing them while swimming or sleeping and use only sterile solutions.
- Drink and use clean water: boil or treat water from wells or tanks in areas where contamination is suspected.
- Treatment involves a combination of antimicrobial eye drops or systemic drugs. Early diagnosis improves outcomes, but brain infections remain challenging.
Significance
The alert reminds the public of the importance of water safety and personal hygiene. Public health agencies must monitor water supplies, educate communities and coordinate with eye care professionals to reduce infections.
