Fresh Water Swimming Risk - Brain Eating Amoeba

The headlines are horrifying, and true. There are, in fact, brain eating amoeba living in many freshwater swimming locations. This does not mean people should stop swimming. It is simply a matter of understanding and avoiding the risk.

First, let’s evaluate the realistic risk. This type of infection is excessively rare, averaging about two cases yearly since the 1930s. Considering the number of people who swim in freshwater, this is an extremely low number. It grabs headlines because it is so uncommon and awful. Much like shark attacks and plane crashes, rare but terrifying.

The amoeba thrives in warm freshwater. It is most commonly found in the southern part of the United States because it requires warm temperatures. It enters the brain through the nasal cavity. Water must be forced deep into the nose in order for the amoeba to flourish and move to the brain. So, simply holding your nose when jumping into the water could prevent this infection. Nettie pots have also been linked to this type of infection. You should always use distilled water with a Nettie pot.

This infection moves quickly and has a 97% fatality rate. It typically starts with fever and headaches. Within five days, it intensifies causing delusions and brain swelling. The patient is often deceased within two weeks of exposure to the amoeba.

Simply keeping water out of your nose will prevent this infection. You can even wear a nose plug if you are extremely concerned. Understand that the risk is low, but it does exist.