The recent investigation into the death of a six-year-old in Texas led to the discovery of Naegleria fowleri in their water supply. The boy contracted the amoeba in Brazoria County after playing in a water park. Earlier in Florida, two others also died due to a N. fowleri infection. One of the cases was also linked to swimming.
Despite this, thankfully, N. fowleri infections are still very rare.
It is found in soil and water and thrives in warmer environments (115°F/46°C). In the US, it has primarily been confined to the Southern States, but lately, it has been detected in states further north. Scientists fear that climate change has increased the range of N. fowleri as temperatures rise across the globe.
Chlorine kills N. fowleri and water is regularly chlorinated by water treatment facilities. Therefore, it is impossible to become infected at properly cleaned and maintained swimming pools and water parks. This has lead to a classification of "rare disease" by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
The county of Brazonia was put under a boil water advisory while the chlorine took effect. Residents were advised to avoid getting water around their noses while bathing. Although you cannot become infected with N. fowleri by drinking contaminated water, it can get into the body through the nose.
"Brain-Eating" sounds very scary, but there isn't much need for concern. Sutherland Maciver, professor at the University of Edinburgh, told Popular Science, "Although it is a very nasty disease it’s worth keeping in mind that it is very uncommon."
Drowning deaths are 1000 times more common than N. fowleri infections. So, it is still safe to participate in water sports and activities, just make sure you wear a life jacket when necessary.
h/t: Popular Science
