Thiruvananthapuram: In a recent development, the Kerala government received a donation of a rare medicine from a UAE-based entrepreneur to treat amoebic meningoencephalitis, a deadly infection with a 97% mortality rate. This medicine was given free-of-cost to the government by Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil, the founder of VPS Healthcare, and was imported from Germany.
Amoebic meningoencephalitis is an extremely lethal infection caused by free-living amoebae, commonly contracted from freshwater sources. Following six confirmed cases in Kerala, the government sought help, and the first batch of medication arrived on Monday, with more expected soon.
The medicine, Miltefosine, has proven effective in treating such infections and is the only recognized oral treatment for certain diseases. The state health department has established a comprehensive treatment protocol for amoebic meningoencephalitis, marking a significant step in managing the disease.
The proactive efforts of the Kerala government, in collaboration with willing donors like Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil, highlight the importance of preparedness in combating rare and deadly infections.
Published 29 July 2024, 20:19 IST