Karachi Reports First Death From Brain Eating Infection in 2026

Karachi has reported its first confirmed death from Naegleria fowleri in 2026 after a 44-year-old resident of Korangi lost his life following a severe brain infection caused by the deadly amoeba.

According to hospital officials, the patient was admitted to a private hospital on July 5 with a high fever, severe headache, and neurological complications.

Laboratory tests confirmed Naegleria infection on July 6. Despite intensive treatment and ventilator support, he succumbed to the infection.

Family members said the deceased had no recent travel history and had not visited any swimming pools or water parks.

They believe the infection may have occurred when contaminated water entered his nose during ablution (wudu), although the exact source of infection has not been officially confirmed.

Health experts explain that Naegleria fowleri is a rare but highly dangerous amoeba that enters the body through the nose and can cause primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM), a rapidly progressing brain infection with a very high fatality rate.

The Sindh Health Department confirmed that this is the province’s first reported Naegleria case and death of 2026.

Officials have advised residents to ensure household water tanks are properly chlorinated and to avoid allowing untreated water to enter the nose during activities such as bathing or ablution. Proper water disinfection remains one of the most effective measures to reduce the risk of infection.