The resident of Missouri dies from brain -eating Amoeba probably contracted in Ozarks

A tragic incident has occurred in Missouri, where a resident lost their life after contracting a rare brain-eating amoeba while spending time at the Lake of the Ozarks. According to state health officials, the individual, identified only as an adult from Missouri, passed away in a hospital in the St. Louis area earlier this week.

The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) confirmed that the victim had been infected with Naegleria Fowleri, a microscopic amoeba known to cause primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM), a fatal brain infection commonly referred to as “brain-eating” disease.

It is believed that the individual may have contracted the infection during water activities on Lake Ozarks in Central Missouri. Naegleria Fowleri is naturally found in warm fresh water such as lakes, rivers, and ponds, thriving in temperatures between 80 to 115 degrees Fahrenheit, particularly after storms. The amoeba enters the body through the nose and travels to the brain, where it causes tissue destruction.

While the infection is extremely rare, with less than 10 cases reported annually in the US, health officials have stressed the importance of taking precautions when swimming or participating in water sports in warm fresh water. Measures such as keeping the nose closed or using clips, avoiding stirring up sediment in shallow water, and using distilled or boiled water for sinus rinses are recommended to reduce the risk of infection.

Symptoms of PAM can manifest within one to 12 days after exposure and may include severe headaches, fever, nausea, vomiting, stiff neck, seizures, confusion, and hallucinations. Early detection is crucial, as symptoms can worsen over time and may be mistaken for bacterial meningitis.

Treatment typically involves a combination of antifungal drugs and antibiotics. Drinking contaminated water is not a risk factor for infection, and the disease does not spread from person to person.

The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services has reported no additional cases in the area, and residents are advised to remain vigilant and seek medical attention if they experience any concerning symptoms. Our thoughts are with the family and loved ones of the individual who tragically lost their life to this rare and devastating infection.