A Georgia resident has tragically died from a rare brain infection caused by the "brain-eating amoeba," Naegleria fowleri, according to officials from the Georgia Department of Health. This marks the sixth known case of the infection in Georgia since 1962. The victim, whose identity has not been released, contracted the amoeba, which destroys brain tissue and causes brain swelling, most likely while swimming in a freshwater lake or pond. The specific location was not disclosed by health officials.

Naegleria fowleri is a naturally occurring amoeba that cannot infect humans if swallowed and is not spread from person to person. Infection occurs when water containing the amoeba enters a person's nose. Unfortunately, there is no routine environmental test for Naegleria fowleri in bodies of water, making it difficult to control or monitor the presence of the amoebas. The levels and distribution of the amoebas can vary within the same body of water over time.

Symptoms of an infection typically appear around five days after exposure but can develop anywhere from 1 to 12 days. They initially include severe headache, fever, nausea, and vomiting, which can progress to a stiff neck, seizures, and coma. The infection progresses rapidly and can result in death within just five days.

To reduce the risk of infection, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises individuals to limit the amount of water that enters their nose while swimming in warm freshwater. This includes avoiding jumping or diving into bodies of water, holding the nose shut, and keeping the head above water. Naegleria fowleri is most commonly found in water above 80 degrees Fahrenheit.

This recent incident in Georgia is the second confirmed death from Naegleria fowleri in just over a month. In June, a 2-year-old child died from the infection after visiting a hot spring in Nevada. Investigators believe the child contracted the amoeba at Ash Springs, located approximately 100 miles north of Las Vegas.

The CDC reports that between 1962 and 2022, there have been 157 cases of Naegleria fowleri infection in the U.S., with only four individuals surviving the disease. Most cases occur during the summer months. In a separate incident this year, the Florida Department of Health confirmed a case of Naegleria fowleri infection, possibly resulting from sinus rinse practices utilizing tap water.

While the risk of infection remains low, health officials emphasize the importance of taking precautions when entering warm freshwater. Early detection of primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM), the disease caused by Naegleria fowleri, is challenging. However, if caught early, PAM can be treated with a combination of antifungal and antibiotic medications.

Recreational water users are urged to be cautious and assume there is a risk when entering warm freshwater environments. Vigilance in limiting water contact with the nose, avoiding submerging the head in hot springs or similar waters, and refraining from disturbing sediment in warm freshwater can help reduce the risk of infection.