(CNN) A case of a rare, brain-destroying amoeba has been confirmed in Florida.
The Florida Department of Health on Friday announced the confirmed case of Naegleria fowleri -- a microscopic single-celled amoeba that can infect and destroy the brain. It's usually fatal, the DOH said.
Since 1962, there have only been 37 reported cases of the amoeba in Florida. This one was found in Hillsborough County, though the DOH did not give any further details.
Naegleria fowleri is typically found in warm freshwater like lakes, rivers and ponds. The DOH has cautioned people who swim in those freshwater sources to be aware of the amoeba's possible presence, particularly when the water is warm.
"Adverse health effects on humans can be prevented by avoiding nasal contact with the waters, since the amoeba enters through nasal passages," the DOH said.
ThunderMountain on July 5th, 2020 at 00:55 UTC »
Four out of 163 cases survived. Damn.
Lilybaum on July 4th, 2020 at 23:11 UTC »
This is the same infection that affects Foreman in the S2 episode of House “Euphoria”
anotherjustnope on July 4th, 2020 at 23:05 UTC »
It can be in any freshwater lake or pond that has still water and gets warm. It’s in Lakes in Oklahoma and Nevada Texas and California. 18 states have had confirmed cases. One of my first rotations as a medical resident I had to watch a patient suffer horrifically after spending a day at the lake with his family. He was still in the ICU when I finished my rotation and I think he died. It was one of the saddest things I’ve seen. Don’t swim in warm lakes people. Google it- Naegleria Fowlerii