A rare case of brain-eating amoeba, Naegleria fowleri, has been reported at the Lake of the Ozarks in Missouri. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reports only 167 confirmed cases since 1962. According to Dr. Christian Rojas Moreno, an Infectious Disease Specialist, anyone who swims in freshwater may be exposed, but the risk is extremely low.
The amoeba can infect people through their nose and cause symptoms such as headache, fever, stiff neck, and vomiting. In severe cases, it can lead to brain inflammation and infection, resulting in confusion, coma, and seizures.
To minimize the risk of infection, swimmers can try to keep their noses shut or use nose clips when swimming. Regular maintenance of pools and water systems with chlorination can also help prevent the amoeba from entering the body.
The lake is gearing up for its annual event next weekend, despite some worried calls from visitors. Health officials have confirmed a patient is currently under intensive care, but have not disclosed their country of origin. For more information on Naegleria fowleri and how to protect yourself, visit the CDC’s webpage.
Source: https://www.ky3.com/2025/08/14/missouri-health-leaders-update-potential-link-brain-eating-amoeba-lake-ozarks