Brain-Eating Amoeba Leaves NC Teen Critically Injured
State health officials said the infection is rare, with only 4 U.S. survivors among 167 reported cases since 1962, according to the CDC.
- A North Carolina teenager is critically ill after contracting Naegleria fowleri, a rare amoeba found in warm freshwater. State health officials confirmed the case on Thursday but did not identify the patient to protect family privacy.
- Naegleria fowleri typically thrives in warm freshwater ponds and lakes, especially during prolonged heat. The organism causes primary amebic meningoencephalitis if contaminated water is forced up the nose during activities like jumping or diving.
- Once symptoms like severe headaches begin, the disease advances rapidly and most patients die within five days. Fewer than 10 U.S. cases occur annually, but the infection carries a 97 percent fatality rate.
- "Our hearts go out to this teen's family, friends and loved ones as they navigate this difficult time," said State Epidemiologist Zack Moore. Moore noted the case serves as an important reminder to take swimming precautions.
- Meteorologists warn that scorching summer heat helps the amoeba proliferate at temperatures up to 115 degrees Fahrenheit and may continue. While the organism cannot be eliminated from nature, health officials advise avoiding dunking your head in warm freshwater.
15 Articles
15 Articles
Teen In Critical Condition With Infection From Warm Freshwater 1 Week After 8-Year-Old Girl Died From Brain-Eating Amoeba
A North Carolina teenager is critically ill and receiving medical care after being infected with a rare brain-eating amoeba called Naegleria fowleri.
North Carolina Teen In Critical Condition After Contracting Rare Brain-Eating Amoeba - Tampa Free Press
A North Carolina teenager remains hospitalized in critical condition after contracting Naegleria fowleri, a microscopic amoeba that destroys brain tissue, state health authorities confirmed this week. Officials have declined to release the patient’s name, age, or hometown, citing privacy laws and respect for the family. Epidemiologists with the North Carolina Department of Health and Human […] North Carolina Teen In Critical Condition After Cont…
The Independent
The Independent (US)North Carolina teen infected with rare brain-eating amoeba
Fewer than 10 people a year are infected in the U.S. but the condition is usually fatal
Eight-year-old Lillian Smart died from an extremely rare but almost always fatal infection caused by the amoeba Naegleria fowleri.
Coverage Details
Bias Distribution
- 62% of the sources are Center
Factuality
To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium
