Cool lakes and local watering holes have long been a source of relief from the summer heat. While many might avoid public beaches due to COVID-19 this summer, cooling waters are still a common refuge as temperatures rise. However, reports of a person in Hillsborough County Florida diagnosed with Naegleria fowleri could put a damper on things. The usually fatal, and exceptionally rare illness is caused when a single-cell amoeba enters the nose. The amoeba is found in warm, contaminated water, and once inhaled, it can quickly lead to death. (1)
Florida Department Of Health
According to the Florida Department of Health (FDH), there have only been 37 Florida cases since 1962. Of the 143 overall U.S. cases, only four survived. Once inhaled, Naegleria fowleri attacks the tissue of the brain leading to a rare infection called Primary Amebic Meningoencephalitis. The illness can cause death in as little as a day. (1, 2)
Season For Amoeba In Florida
Naegleria fowleri is contracted through contaminated water, but only through the nose. The amoeba is found in Florida from July to September, as it ideally grows in temperatures of 115 degrees Fahrenheit. The amoeba can live in rivers, ponds, lakes, canals, and hot springs, as well as pools not properly chlorinated. (1)
In fact, Neti pot users are even being warned to use sterilized water. The good news is you can’t contract the illness by drinking contaminated water. (1)
Symptoms Of Naegleria Fowleri
Symptoms include: (2)
- Severe frontal headache
- Fever
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Stiff neck
- Seizures
- Altered mental status
- Hallucinations
- Coma
Symptoms appear a few days following exposure and death can occur from one to 18 days later. If caught in the early stages, it is more likely you can recover. If you have been swimming and experience the symptoms, it’s advised you see your doctor right away. (2)
Rare Illness In Florida
Despite the fact there are many areas people can swim and play in warm natural rivers and lakes in Florida, the illness is rare. It’s not known why such a small number of people contract the illness when millions participate in the same water activities in peak summer months. (2)
Florida Health Department Recommendations
The Florida Department of Health recommends you take the following precautions: (2)
- Avoid swimming and water activities at warm freshwater sources, especially during periods when water temperatures are high and water levels are low
- Plug your nose or use nose clips when swimming in freshwater
- Don’t stir up the water and sediment when you are in shallow, freshwater
- Rinse your neti pot very well using boiled, cooled water or distilled or sterile water
- Use boiled, cooled water or distilled or sterile water for ritual ablutions
“Remember, this disease is rare and effective prevention strategies can allow for a safe and relaxing summer swim season,” says the Florida Health Department. Despite these words of wisdom, it’s hard to hear there’s another health threat out there as COVID-19 continues to take its toll. (2)
