Health officials issue warning about deadly brain-eating amoeba

Key Points:

• Health officials nationwide are urging vigilance against Naegleria fowleri, a rare but deadly "brain-eating amoeba" found in warm freshwater and soil, as summer approaches and temperatures rise.
• Although infections are extremely rare, with only 167 cases and four survivors reported in the U.S. since 1962, the amoeba can cause a fatal brain infection called primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM).
• The CDC has updated its clinical guidance and awareness campaign to improve early diagnosis and treatment, including enhanced PCR testing, antigen detection, and revised water testing protocols for high-risk areas.
• Local health departments, especially in the southern U.S., have issued warnings due to recent heat waves that increase freshwater temperatures and the risk of amoeba growth, with public health labs expanding testing capacity and training healthcare workers.
• Experts stress that infections remain rare but advise the public to stay informed and take precautions during warmer months when exposure to warm freshwater is more likely.