Brain-Eating Amoeba Causes Another Fatality This Year

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brain-eating amoeba

As much as children love spending warmer days near the local lakes for a dip, a brain-eating amoeba may be a threat they need to be aware of. It is usually present under the surface waiting to encounter humans.

Over the last few years, multiple cases have been reported during the summers. Additionally, two children from North Carolina have been reported to have passed away because of this organism. It was announced that the child died post swimming in Elkon River in Eastern Nebraska. Moreover, the main suspect was the brain-eating amoeba. However, the question is, what is this disease and why should people be worried?

According to the Summer is Amoeba Season campaign, although this disease maybe 97% lethal, it can be prevented 100%. Furthermore, it is suggested that people avoid deep water activities and use a Neti pot, which is a contraption for nasal congestion with untreated or water that isn’t boiled. Moreover, it is recommended that people use a nose clip when in fresh water.

Symptoms of the Brain-Eating Amoeba Infection

The symptoms start rapidly one to twelve days after the infection. Severe headache between the eyes, nausea, and vomiting are symptoms of stage one. Moreover, they are easily misdiagnosed as meningitis and people may experience hallucinations and seizures.

“An Emerging Parasite?”

Approximately 154 cases of N. fowleri have been seen in the United States between 1962-2021. Although there hasn’t been an increase in cases overall in the US, they are seen across other countries. For example, Pakistan. During the last decade, 146 cases have been reported in Karachi. However, there is no proof of whether the cases are really increasing or whether there is more awareness regarding the parasite now.

However, despite everything, there is a concern about whether climate change will change the prevalence of this parasite. As the earth is becoming hotter, there are chances of more potential amoeba-friendly spots.

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