Missouri DHSS confirms case of rare brain infection
First Missouri case confirmed in 35 years
The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services has confirmed a case of rare brain infection caused by an ameba called Naegleria fowleri.
The infection is known as primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM) – it is not contagious, but can be life threatening. The patient is being treated in ICU.
The source of the exposure is being investigated by public health officials. Local and out-of-state activity are being considered.
Recreational water users should assume that Naegleria fowleri is present in warm freshwater across the U.S.; however, infection remains rare.
The ameba is commonly found in warm freshwater such as lakes, rivers, and ponds; however, PAM is extremely rare. Since 1962, only 154 known cases have been identified in the U.S. The only other case among a Missouri resident was in 1987.
Although rare, infection can occur when when water containing Naegleria fowleri enters through the nose from freshwater. The ameba travels up the nose to the brain where it destroys brain tissue. This infection isn’t contagious and can’t be contracted by swallowing water.
People can take actions to reduce the risk of infection by limiting the amount of water going up the nose.
These actions could include:
· Hold your nose shut, use nose clips, or keep your head above water when taking part in water-related activities in bodies of warm freshwater.
· Avoid putting your head under the water in hot springs and other untreated thermal waters.
· Avoid water-related activities in warm freshwater during periods of high-water temperature.
· Avoid digging in, or stirring up, the sediment while taking part in water-related activities in shallow, warm freshwater areas.
(These recommendations are best practices but not based on scientific testing since the low numbers of infections make it difficult to show effectiveness.)