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Naegleria

Naegleria is an ameba commonly found in warm bodies of fresh water such as lakes, rivers, and hot springs. It is when an ameba enters the body through the nose where it attaches itself to the brain and spinal cord. The ameba feeds on brain tissue causing Primary Amebic Meningoencephalitis (PAM).

Infection is common during the summer months of July, August, and September when water temperatures are higher and water levels are lower.

The disease progresses rapidly and infection usually results in death 3-7 days after infection. There is no known cure. Prevention is key.

Signs & Symptoms: begin 1-14 days after infection and last 3-7 days.

• headache
• fever
• nausea
• vomiting
• stiff neck
• confusion
• lack of attention to people and surroundings
• loss of balance and bodily control
• seizures
• hallucinations

Prevention:

• Hold your nose shut or use nose clips when taking part in water related activities in warm fresh water.
• Avoid water related activities in bodies of warm fresh water, hot springs, and thermally-polluted water, such as water around power plants.
• Avoid water related activities in warm fresh water during periods of high water temperature and low water levels.
• Avoid digging in or stirring up the sediment while taking part in water related activities in shallow, warm, fresh water areas.