A new case of brain-eating amoeba has come to light, know its symptoms and prevention methods

Recently, a new case of Brain Eating Amoeba has been reported in America. This is a deadly infection, three cases of which were also reported in Kerala a few days ago. It is important to identify the symptoms of this infection immediately and get it treated, otherwise it can prove fatal.

Recently, a new case of Brain Eating Amoeba infection has been reported in America. A person fell victim to this infection while skiing in a lake. Three cases of Brain Eating Amoeba were also reported in the Indian state of Kerala a few days ago. This is a very serious infection, which is very important to prevent.

Let us know what the symptoms of Brain Eating Amoeba infection are and what things are important to keep in mind to avoid it.

What is brain eating amoeba?

'Brain Eating Amoeba', scientifically known as Naegleria fowleri. This is a rare but extremely deadly infection that causes severe damage to the brain. It is usually found in warm, fresh water and soil. This infection occurs to a person when water contaminated with amoeba enters the body through the nose.

It crosses the mucosal membrane of the nose and reaches the brain through nerves and starts damaging the brain tissues.

Symptoms of brain-eating amoeba infection

Symptoms of infection usually appear 2 to 15 days after exposure. The initial symptoms may be similar to flu or other common illnesses, but develop very rapidly. Its symptoms are as follows-

• Fever
• Nausea and vomiting
• Stiff neck
• Confusion, lack of focus
• Having a seizure
• Hallucinations
• Shivers
• Light Sensitivity
• Slip into a coma

The disease progresses very quickly and usually occurs within 3 to 7 days of symptom onset, with a mortality rate of approximately 97%. Therefore, if a person experiences these symptoms and has been swimming or doing other activities in fresh water, a doctor should be contacted immediately.

Measures to prevent Brain-eating amoeba

• Use a nose clip when swimming or diving in a warm, freshwater pond, lake or river to prevent water from entering the nose. If cases of brain-eating amoeba infection have been reported in that area, avoid going into the water.
• Try to keep your head above water while swimming. Putting your mouth under water increases the risk of infection.
• Avoid going into ponds and lakes during hot weather, when water levels are low and temperatures are high.
• Also, be cautious when using sprinklers or water slides with unchlorinated water.
• Always use sterilized, distilled or boiled water when using a neti pot for sinus problems. Do not use straight tap water.

PC:Jagran