A 71-year-old woman in Texas died from a rare brain-eating amoeba infection, Naegleria fowleri, after using contaminated tap water for nasal irrigation. The woman’s death highlights the importance of safe water practices when traveling or staying in RVs.
Naegleria fowleri is a parasite that causes Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis (PAM), a nearly fatal disease with a 98% mortality rate. It thrives in warm freshwater environments, such as lakes and hot springs, and enters the body through contaminated water passed through the nose.
The CDC reports 164 cases of PAM in the US between 1962 and 2023, with only four survivors. Symptoms include headache, fever, nausea, vomiting, stiff neck, confusion, seizures, and hallucinations, progressing to coma and death within a few days.
To stay safe:
– Use boiled or filtered water for nasal irrigation
– Avoid using tap water from RV’s water tank or system
– Check the water source before consumption
– Keep shower and sink faucets closed while in RVs
– Wear protective masks when using contaminated water
Note: Naegleria fowleri infection is not transmissible through swallowing, sharing, or contact with others.
Source: https://www.hindustantimes.com/lifestyle/health/what-is-naegleria-fowleri-brain-eating-amoeba-that-killed-texas-woman-in-8-days-know-how-to-stay-safe-101749275068912.html