While amoebas are common in freshwater, there are ways for parents to reduce the risk.
COLUMBIA, S.C. — A children’s hospital in South Carolina has reported a death linked to a brain-eating amoeba.
The Department of Public Health sent out a notification on Tuesday evening indicating that the organism is believed to have been found at Lake Murray.
Prisma Health Richland Children’s Hospital confirmed on Tuesday that a patient being treated at their facility died from this organism. This disclosure followed a day after the South Carolina Department of Public Health (SCDPH) announced a confirmed case of the illness but had not yet validated a death.
“We extend our condolences to the family,” stated Dr. Anna Kathryn Burch, a pediatric infectious disease doctor at Prisma Health Children’s Hospital. “The staff here genuinely cares and wants your family to know we’re thinking about you.”
No further information about the patient, such as age or specific points of exposure to the amoeba, was provided by Prisma Health.
The amoeba, scientifically identified as Naegleria fowleri, typically inhabits warm freshwater and has occasionally been discovered in tap water. The Centers for Disease Control emphasizes that infections are very uncommon, with fewer than 10 cases occurring annually in the U.S. Yet, these instances are frequently fatal.
According to DPH, there have been a total of 167 reported cases across the country in the last 62 years.
Dr. Burch held a press conference on Tuesday to address various questions regarding the amoeba. Here’s a summary of her responses and topics that may arise following this situation.
What is Naegleria fowleri?
“Naegleria fowleri is an amoeba commonly found in fresh waters throughout South Carolina and generally in the Southeast,” Burch explained. “Any lake, river, pond, or hot spring you come across in South Carolina may contain this amoeba. It mainly resides in the sediment at the bottoms of lakes and rivers.”
“Interestingly, for most individuals who come into contact with this amoeba, it causes no harm at all. Many of us have likely been exposed while enjoying lakes and rivers. The concern arises when water containing the amoeba forcefully enters the nose and can travel to the brain, resulting in primary amoebic meningoencephalitis. This condition leads to brain swelling, and unfortunately, more than 97% of the documented cases in the U.S. have ended fatally.”
Burch noted that the amoeba is absent in saltwater, meaning there’s no threat while at the ocean.
How common is this infection?
“In my time as a pediatric infectious disease physician in South Carolina, I’ve encountered two cases,” Burch mentioned. “This year, there has been only one reported case in the state, and that is the one we’re discussing.”
What can parents do to protect their children?
“You can minimize the risk by:
- Avoiding the forceful entry of water into the nose during activities like diving, tubing, or skiing.
- Teaching children to blow their noses or hold them when jumping into water.
- Using nose clips during freshwater activities.
- Avoiding shallow, sandy, or silty areas where the amoeba thrives.
Additionally, it’s crucial not to use untreated tap water in nasal irrigation devices such as neti pots. Always boil and cool tap water, or use sterile or distilled water instead.”
Should families steer clear of lakes and rivers?
“This presents a tricky dilemma, particularly for those of us who grew up in the South, where swimming in freshwater is a cherished summer activity. The risk heightens in very hot weather. Families must weigh the dangers and consider precautions like using nose clips, avoiding submersion, or opting to float.”
Is the risk heightened in warmer weather?
“Yes, the risk indeed increases during high-temperature periods, such as those sweltering 100-degree days. So, if you decide to swim in such conditions, it’s wise to talk with your children about the importance of preventing water from entering their noses, perhaps using nose clips, and maybe even skipping the tubing in favor of floating.”
What advice do you have for concerned parents?
“This infection is rare—fewer than 10 cases are documented each year in the U.S. Understanding how it spreads and knowing how to mitigate the risk is crucial. We shouldn’t feel nervous about enjoying our lakes and rivers, but we should certainly be informed and careful. Educate your children, use protective gear, and make decisions that feel right for your family.”
What symptoms should I look for?
“Symptoms generally appear around five days following exposure, but can range from one to twelve days. It starts with severe headaches, fever, stiff neck, vomiting, and diarrhea. If your child has been in freshwater recently and shows these symptoms, it’s important to contact your healthcare provider.”
Can it be found in tap water?
“While it’s uncommon, there have been isolated instances of Naegleria fowleri found in tap water. Chlorinated water should not pose a risk, but avoid using tap water for nasal rinsing unless it’s been boiled or sterilized properly.”
Is it difficult to diagnose?
“Yes, due to its rarity, it’s not something that always comes to mind for healthcare providers. That’s why it’s essential to inform your doctor about any recent exposure to freshwater. This information could be vital for accurate testing and quicker diagnosis.”
