The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services announced Thursday that a teenager in central North Carolina is critically ill after contracting a rare brain infection caused by a brain-eating amoeba.
The teen is receiving medical care, state health officials said.
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The infection, known as primary amebic meningoencephalitis, or PAM, is extremely rare. Fewer than 10 cases are typically reported in the United States each year, NCDHHS said.
PAM is caused by Naegleria fowleri, an amoeba commonly found in warm freshwater such as lakes and ponds, according to NCDHHS. It is not found in saltwater or properly chlorinated pools.
Early symptoms include a severe headache, fever, nausea and vomiting. The disease can quickly progress to a stiff neck, seizures and coma. Most patients die within five days of developing symptoms, health officials said.
“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. “While these infections are very rare, this is an important reminder that this amoeba is present in our state and across the U.S. There are steps people can take to reduce their risk of infection while swimming during the warmer months.”
While there is no way to eliminate the amoeba from the environment, NCDHHS recommends taking precautions when swimming in warm freshwater:
- Prevent water going up your nose by holding your nose shut, use nose clips or keep your head above water when taking part in warm freshwater-related activities.
- Avoid putting your head underwater 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 while taking part in water-related activities in shallow, warm freshwater areas.