The Kozhikode-based Center for Water Resources Development and Management (CWRDM) has received permission from the state government to test water samples for the presence of free-living amoeba, which causes a fatal brain infection, amoebic meningoencephalitis.
The Centre, which functions under the Kerala State Council for Science, Technology and Environment, has been permitted to tie up with the State Public Health Laboratory, Thiruvananthapuram to enhance surveillance and monitoring of Naegleria fowleri and other free-living amoebae in natural water bodies and drinking water sources, subject to applicable regulatory guidelines.
According to sources, the executive director of CWRDM has submitted a proposal seeking a tie-up with the health department to strengthen surveillance and monitoring of free-living amoebas in view of the rise in cases of amoebic meningoencephalitis in the state in recent months. CWRDM was proposed to have the expertise and laboratory equipment to carry out regular monitoring and analysis of water samples and also to operate a Water Analysis Laboratory accredited by the National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories, where over 7,500 samples are tested annually using a wide range of sophisticated equipment. In addition, its campus also houses a specialized National Hydrology Isotope Facility that enables advanced investigations related to water quality and resource monitoring. Sources said guidelines for the testing procedure are being prepared.
Published – 17 Nov 2025 21:08 IST
