A species closely related to the brain-eating amoeba has been discovered at a popular Western Australia dam, prompting an urgent warning for swimmers.
Naegleria fowleri was detected at Drakesbrook Weir in the small town of Waroona, 100km south of Perth. The West Australian newspaper reported.
Waruna province announced the news after routine water quality testing and is currently working to eliminate the presence of the deadly Naegleria fowleri, a brain infection that destroys brain tissue.
The dam was also closed in January and April this year due to similar risks.
Shire urged anyone who has recently been in the water and feels unwell to seek medical attention.
Featuring a grassy picnic area, floating swimming platform and freshwater beach, Drakesbrook Weir is a popular swimming spot for both locals and tourists from nearby Waroona due to its proximity to the main state highway, the South Western Highway .
Amoeba thrives in warm, still water, so the risk increases when temperatures start to rise.
Warning signs have been installed in the shire to alert people to health risks.
