Naegleria Infection

Overview

Naegleria fowleri lives in warm fresh water and in poorly chlorinated water supplies. Cases are reported in Karachi every year, often in hot months. Prevention is the most important protection.

Symptoms

• Severe headache
• Fever
• Nausea and vomiting
• Stiff neck
• Confusion, seizures and loss of consciousness
• Symptoms usually start one to nine days after exposure

Causes and risk factors

Infection happens when contaminated water goes up the nose, for example while swimming, bathing or doing ablution (wudu). It cannot be caught by drinking water and does not spread from person to person.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is made by testing spinal fluid from a lumbar puncture.

Treatment

Treatment is urgent intensive care with a combination of medicines. Survival is rare, so prevention is key: use boiled, filtered or properly chlorinated water for nasal rinsing and ablution, and swim only in well-chlorinated pools.

When to see a doctor

Seek emergency care immediately for severe headache, fever and stiff neck, especially after swimming or getting water in the nose.