Investigation into Teen’s Death from Amoeba Reveals Possible Source

An inquiry into the death of a teen attributed to a “brain-eating” amoeba has identified a water feature in Durham as a potential source of exposure.

While officials from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) cannot definitively state where the exposure occurred, a state investigation has pointed to a water element at El Futuro as the “most likely source” of the infection.

“Although we cannot conclusively identify the exposure location, the findings from epidemiological, laboratory, and environmental assessments suggest that the water feature at El Futuro was the most likely source,” a report from NCDHHS indicated.

El Futuro is a nonprofit organization focused on mental health support for Latino families, operating a clinic located on Chapel Hill Road in Durham.

Investigators believe the teen might have splashed water on his face while in the clinic’s outdoor area on August 13. He was taken to the emergency room on August 21 after suffering from severe headaches for two days and returned there on August 22. The NCDHHS was informed of a suspected Naegleria fowleri case on August 23.

The teenager, whose identity has not been disclosed, passed away on August 31.

El Futuro issued a statement on Tuesday:

“The NC Department of Health and Human Services and Durham County Public Health informed us that testing found Naegleria fowleri in a water feature at our green space. We are heartbroken for the young boy who lost his life and for his family. We are dedicated to assisting his family and our community during this tragic time. We will continue to cooperate fully with public health officials. Since we were first contacted by county officials, the water feature has been closed.” El Futuro

Durham County health authorities closed the water feature on August 28 for CDC testing. As of Tuesday, signs reading “Keep Out” and orange traffic cones surrounded the area.

14-year-old Zamaya Strickland, a local resident, noted that the green space typically attracts many visitors.

“Just a few weeks ago, you could see kids playing in the little pond and waterfall every single day,” Strickland remarked.

In late August, the NCDHHS inspected a manmade creek and various fountains at El Futuro, discovering algal growth and organic material around the pump system. Testing revealed non-viable DNA of Naegleria fowleri in water from a fountain’s storage tank.

Dr. Rodney Jenkins, the Public Health Director for Durham County, emphasized that while this case is tragic, infections of this kind are exceptionally rare. He elaborated on the testing procedures.

“We went to the site and instructed them to cordon it off and shut it down, which they did,” Jenkins stated. “They complied. We’re taking all necessary measures to address any inquiries they may have and to protect public health.”

Naegleria fowleri is a microscopic, single-celled organism capable of causing a severe brain infection. It is typically found in warm freshwater environments like ponds, lakes, rivers, and even in soil.

According to NCDHHS, there have been 167 cases of Naegleria infections reported across the U.S. from 1962 to 2024, with infection occurring when water containing the amoeba enters through the nose.

State public health veterinarian, Dr. Carl Williams, advised using nose clips to prevent exposure to this dangerous amoeba.

“It doesn’t have to be very forceful. I think any water that gets into your nasal passages can pose a potential risk,” Williams commented.