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Louisiana officials issue warning over amoeba lurking in tap water
New York Post • • general
Key Points:
- Louisiana health officials have issued a warning after five cases of permanent blindness and one death were linked to Acanthamoeba, a microscopic amoeba found in tap water, soil, and dust.
- Since 2024, 10 cases of Acanthamoeba-related illness have been reported in the state, with eight involving eye infections (Acanthamoeba keratitis), mostly affecting contact lens users, and two severe cases affecting the sinuses and brain.
- The amoeba can enter the body through cuts, inhalation, or eyes, particularly via contaminated water used with contact lenses or nasal irrigation devices; drinking tap water is not considered a risk.
- Acanthamoeba keratitis causes symptoms like eye pain, redness, and blurred vision and is treated with antiseptic eye drops, but about 40% of cases may require surgery if not treated early.
- More serious infections affecting the brain and sinuses are rare but often fatal, especially in people with weakened immune systems, prompting health officials to urge immediate medical attention for related symptoms.
