What is Naegleria Fowleri (N.F.)?
N.F. is a single cell amoeboid protozoan parasite that lives in fresh water. It is more commonly known as "the brain eating amoeba." N.F. causes a rare but often fatal brain infection called Primary Amoebic Meningocephalitis
Where is N.F. found?
N.F. is found in fresh water. The amoeba is most active is water that is between 86 vand 115 degrees Fahrenhiet.
What is the life cycle of N.F.?
The life cycle of N.F. starts in the form of a cyst. As the temperatuire of the water exceeds the minimum threshold, the parasite enters the trophozoites faze when it becomes infectious to humans and animals.when water containing the parasite enters up the nose, the parasite clings to, and penetrates the nasal mucosa.When the parsite migrates to the brain, it causes Primary Amoebic Meningocephalitis.
Statistics of N.F.
Since N.F. was first discovered in 1937 to 2025, there have been a total of 180 infections in the United states. Out of the 180 cases, there have only been 4 survivors, giving the disease this parasite causes a near 98% fatality rate. The notable survivors are:
- Kali Hardig,(United States,2013). Was age 12 when She contracted the parasite.
- Afnan Jasim,(India,2024). Was age 14 when he contracted the parasite.
- Caleb Z., (United States,2024). Was age 13 when he contracted the parasite.
How to protect yourself from N.F.?
The best way to protecty yoiurself from N.F. si to use nose plugs whenever swimming in fresh water and to avoid stagnant water. If you use a nasal rinse such as Netty Pot, use distilled water.