Source: Fox News
Summary
A North Carolina teenager died from a rare brain infection caused by the amoeba Naegleria fowleri, according to state health officials. The infection, known as primary amebic meningoencephalitis, is typically contracted when water containing the amoeba enters the nose. Symptoms include headache, fever, and vomiting, and the disease progresses rapidly. The CDC reports a nearly 100% mortality rate. The teen’s death occurred days after an 8-year-old girl in Louisiana died from the same infection. Health experts advise avoiding warm freshwater and using nose clips to reduce risk.
Our Reading
This guidance has been heard before.
Naegleria fowleri is a rare but deadly amoeba found in warm water.
It causes a brain infection with symptoms that appear quickly.
Health officials warn of the risks, but the disease is almost always fatal.
The advice to avoid warm water and use nose clips feels familiar, like a warning that never changes.
Author: Evan Null
North Carolina Teenager Dies from Rare Brain Infection
A North Carolina teenager has died from a rare and often fatal infection caused by an amoeba found in warm freshwater, according to state health officials. The infection, caused by Naegleria fowleri, is known as primary amebic meningoencephalitis. The teen’s mother shared that his first symptom was severe headaches. Health officials said the infection is rare but serious and that it can be contracted when water containing the amoeba enters the nose.
Similar Death in Louisiana
The teen’s death was reported just days after an 8-year-old girl in Louisiana succumbed to the same infection. State Epidemiologist Zack Moore, M.D., said these infections are rare but serve as a reminder that the amoeba is present in the U.S. He advised people to take steps to reduce their risk while swimming during warmer months.
Amoeba Causes Life-Threatening Brain Infection
Naegleria fowleri, commonly referred to as a “brain-eating amoeba,” causes a life-threatening brain infection. The amoeba is most active in warm, stagnant water. The infection occurs when water containing the amoeba is forced up the nose, allowing it to travel to the brain. Once that happens, the disease is nearly always fatal, with a mortality rate close to 100%.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
The initial symptoms of primary amebic meningoencephalitis usually begin about five days after exposure. They include headache, nausea, fever, and vomiting. As the infection progresses, people may experience confusion, slurred speech, stiff neck, disorientation, hallucinations, seizures, and coma. Diagnosis involves testing cerebrospinal fluid obtained through a spinal tap.
Prevention and Treatment
To prevent infections, experts recommend avoiding warm freshwater or using a nose clip while swimming. The CDC also advises against stirring up sediment at the bottom of lakes, ponds, and rivers. Treatment involves a combination of antimicrobial and anti-amoebic medications, but by the time the amoeba reaches the brain, it is often too late. Those who experience sudden symptoms after swimming should seek immediate medical attention.
