Naegleria fowleri is a free-living microscopic amoeba that can cause a rare and deadly brain infection called primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM). This amoeba is commonly found in warm freshwater environments, such as lakes, rivers, and hot springs. Naegleria fowleri infections are rare, but they are almost always fatal once symptoms develop. It is important to know about this amoeba and how to prevent exposure to it.
What is Primary Amebic Meningoencephalitis (PAM)?
Primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM) is a severe brain infection that is caused by Naegleria fowleri. This infection is rare, but it is almost always fatal. The symptoms of PAM usually appear within 1-9 days after exposure to the amoeba, and they can include headache, fever, nausea, vomiting, stiff neck, confusion, seizures, and coma. There is no specific treatment for PAM, but early diagnosis and aggressive supportive care may improve the patient’s chances of survival.
How Does Naegleria Fowleri Infect Humans?
- Naegleria fowleri infects humans when water containing the amoeba enters the body through the nose.
- The amoeba then travels up the olfactory nerve to the brain, where it causes inflammation and destruction of brain tissue.
- Naegleria fowleri does not cause infection if it is swallowed.
- It cannot be transmitted from person to person.
Where is Naegleria Fowleri Found?
- Naegleria fowleri is commonly found in warm freshwater environments, such as lakes, rivers, and hot springs.
- It can also be found in soil, and in poorly maintained swimming pools and hot tubs.
- The amoeba thrives in warm temperatures between 25°C and 42°C.
Who is at Risk of Naegleria Fowleri Infection?
Anyone can be infected with Naegleria fowleri, but certain populations may be at higher risk. These populations include:
- Individuals who swim in warm freshwater lakes and rivers or use poorly maintained swimming pools or hot tubs.
- Individuals who engage in activities that involve diving or submerging the head in warm freshwater, such as water skiing or surfing.
- Individuals who use contaminated tap water for nasal irrigation or other purposes.
How Can Naegleria Fowleri Infection be Prevented?
There are several steps that individuals can take to reduce their risk of Naegleria fowleri infection:
- Avoid water-related activities in warm freshwater, especially during hot weather.
- Use nose clips or hold the nose shut when swimming or submerging the head in warm freshwater.
- Avoid digging in or stirring up the sediment at the bottom of a body of warm freshwater.
- Ensure that swimming pools and hot tubs are properly maintained with adequate levels of chlorine or other disinfectants.
- Avoid using tap water for nasal irrigation or other activities that involve introducing water into the nose.
What Should You Do if You Think You Have been Exposed to Naegleria Fowleri?
If you think you have been exposed to Naegleria fowleri, watch for symptoms of primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM) for at least the next seven days. If you develop symptoms, seek medical attention immediately. Early diagnosis and aggressive supportive care may improve your chances of survival.
Conclusion
Naegleria fowleri is a rare but deadly amoeba that can cause primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM), a severe brain infection. This infection is almost always fatal, but it can be prevented by taking certain precautions. Avoiding water-related activities in warm freshwater and using nose clips when swimming or submerging the head in warm freshwater are important steps to reduce the risk of Naegleria fowleri infection.
References
- CDC. (2021). Naegleria fowleri. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/parasites/naegleria/general.html
- Mayo Clinic. (2021). Naegleria infection. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/naegleria-infection/symptoms-causes/syc-20375470
FAQs about Naegleria Fowleri
- Q: Is Naegleria fowleri contagious?
- A: No, Naegleria fowleri is not contagious and cannot be transmitted from person to person.
- Q: Can Naegleria fowleri infection be treated?
- A: There is no specific treatment for primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM) caused by Naegleria fowleri. Early diagnosis and aggressive supportive care may improve the patient’s chances of survival.
- Q: Can Naegleria fowleri survive in saltwater?
- A: No, Naegleria fowleri cannot survive in saltwater. The amoeba thrives in warm freshwater environments.
- Q: Can Naegleria fowleri infection be prevented by boiling water?
- A: No, boiling water does not eliminate Naegleria fowleri. The best way to prevent infection is to avoid water-related activities in warm freshwater and to use nose clips or hold the nose shut when swimming or submerging the head in warm freshwater.
- Q: What is the mortality rate for primary amebic meningoencephalitis caused by Naegleria fowleri?
- A: The mortality rate for primary amebic meningoencephalitis caused by Naegleria fowleri is over 97%. The infection is rare, but almost always fatal.