Worse than Corona - The Brain-eating Amoeba Threat - How can you Protect yourself ?
There have been two incidences of Naegleria Fowleri infections recently, which is cause for alarm. A 23-year-old male from Karachi, Pakistan, and a 15-year-old boy from Kerala, India, both tested positive for this unusual and potentially fatal brain-eating amoeba. Let's examine these situations' specifics and ramifications now.
What is Naegleria Fowleri?
A microscopic organism known as Naegleria Fowleri, sometimes known as the brain-eating amoeba, is typically found in warm freshwater habitats and soil. Individuals run the danger of contracting an infection if they swim or dive in contaminated water. The amoeba can reach the brain and cause brain tissue to be destroyed when water carrying it enters the body through the nose. Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis (PAM) is the official medical name for this illness.
Symptoms and Progression
PAM symptoms usually start to show five days after exposure. Initial symptoms include headaches, fever, nausea, and vomiting. More severe symptoms, including a stiff neck, confusion, seizures, hallucinations, and even coma, might appear as the illness worsens. Tragically, the disease's rapid course frequently causes mortality within a few days after symptoms appear.
Recent Cases and ImpactA 15-year-old boy tragically perished from PAM in Kerala, India. He was critically ill when he was admitted to the government Medical college Hospital in Alappuzha, but he died there. In a private hospital in Karachi, Pakistan, a 23-year-old engineer is battling for his life against the virus. This is the seventh instance of PAM that has been documented in Karachi this year.
Prevention and Water Disinfection
It is impossible to overestimate the significance of water disinfection, particularly when chlorine is used. The likelihood of Naegleria infection is drastically decreased by thoroughly sanitizing water sources, whether they be taps or swimming pools. Making sure water is sanitized before usage can aid in stopping the spread of this harmful sickness.
What to do?
The danger presented by Naegleria Fowleri and the steps that might be done to lessen it must be made more widely known. One may work together to protect public health from this dangerous brain-eating amoeba by using simple yet effective practices. To prevent yourself and your loved ones from contracting this potentially fatal virus, make sure the water is disinfected whether you're using tap water or swimming in a pool. Stay safe and informed.