Brain eating amoeba | Naegleria fowleri what is brain eating amoeba infection symptoms medicine causes
Brain eating amoeba: Explained (Representational image)
Photo : IANS
How did the man catch brain-eating amoeba infection?
The South Korean man had just returned from Thailand. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Naegleria fowleri is a single celled organism that lives in fresh water such as lakes, hot water springs, soil and rivers.
Why is Naegleria fowleri called brain eating amoeba?
Naegleria fowleri is called brain eating amoeba because it can cause a brain infection. While the exact cause of transmission are not known, the amoeba enters the body when water enters human body through nose.
What are the symptoms of brain eating amoeba infection?
According to Korean media reports, the man began showing signs of meningitis, such as headaches, vomiting, fever, slurred speech, and stiffness of neck. He was admitted to a hospital, but he passed away on December 21.
What are the precautions to be taken to prevent getting infected by brain eating amoeba?
KDCA has advised people to stay alert and exercise precaution while participating in water sports and consuming fresh water fish. Prior to this, 143 cases of transmission of brain eating amoeba infections were reported in the US between 1962-2018. According to the WHO, 1000-2000 cases of brain eating amoeba infections are registered globally every year.
