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Brain-Eating Amoeba Found in U.S. National Parks
18 Jun
Summary
- Rare 'brain-eating' amoeba detected in waters of multiple U.S. national parks.
- Infection is fatal in 97% of cases, with survival rare and rapid progression.
- Climate change exacerbates conditions for amoeba growth in warmer waters.
The presence of the 'brain-eating' amoeba Naegleria fowleri has been confirmed in recreational waters across several U.S. national parks in the Western United States. Sampling revealed the organism in approximately one-third of collected water specimens from locations such as Yellowstone National Park and Lake Mead National Recreation Area. Lake Mead, Grand Teton, and Yellowstone showed the highest contamination levels.
Naegleria fowleri is a microscopic amoeba found in warm freshwaters like lakes and rivers. Infections occur when contaminated water enters the nose, potentially leading to a fatal brain infection called primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM). Symptoms include fever, headaches, and confusion, progressing rapidly to seizures and death in many cases.
Experts emphasize that human-caused climate change is creating more favorable conditions for Naegleria fowleri. Rising air temperatures lead to warmer water, supporting the amoeba's growth and its spread into new regions. While PAM is rare, with fewer than 10 U.S. cases annually, it is almost invariably fatal, with a 97% mortality rate. Precautions like avoiding submerging the head in fresh water and holding one's nose are recommended.
