A central North Carolina teenager is critically ill with a rare infection caused by an amoeba commonly found in warm freshwater, state health officials said Thursday.
The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services said the teen has an infection caused by Naegleria fowleri, a microscopic organism that can damage the brain. NCHHS did not say where the teen was in the water to encounter the amoeba, but Naegleria fowleri pose a danger to anyone who swims in warm lakes, rivers or ponds.
Infection can happen when contaminated water is forced up the nose, such as when someone dives or jumps into warm freshwater. The amoeba is not found in salt water or in properly maintained and chlorinated swimming pools, according to health officials.
To protect the family’s privacy, no identifying information was released.
“Our hearts go out to this teen’s family, friends and loved ones as they navigate this difficult time,” State Epidemiologist Dr. Zack Moore said.
Moore said the infections are extremely rare but serve as a reminder that the amoeba is found in North Carolina and elsewhere in the United States.
The infection, known as primary amebic meningoencephalitis, or PAM, can cause severe headache, fever, nausea and vomiting. Symptoms can quickly progress to a stiff neck, seizures and coma.
The disease moves rapidly and is usually fatal within about five days after symptoms begin. Fewer than 10 cases are typically reported each year in the United States.
Infections are more likely during long stretches of hot weather, when water temperatures rise and water levels fall. The amoeba grows best in warm water and can survive at temperatures as high as 115 degrees.
NCDHHS offered these safety measures for those who want to cool off in lakes or ponds:
Prevent water going up your nose by holding your nose shut or use nose clipsKeep your head above water when swimming or playing freshwater.Avoid putting your head under water in hot springs and thermal waters.Avoid jumping or diving in warm freshwater during periods of high water temperatures and low water levels.Avoid digging in or stirring up the sediment of lakes, ponds or rivers.