Prisma Health Children's Hospital Midlands in South Carolina, US, confirmed the death of a patient infected with Naegleria fowleri in a brief press conference on July 22. The brain-eating amoeba causes an infection called primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM) that destroys brain tissue.
It is believed the exposure happened at Lake Murray, northeast of Columbia. However, it is not certain, as "the organism occurs naturally and is present in many warm water lakes, rivers, and streams," the South Carolina Department of Public Health said.
As temperatures rise and people head to lakes, rivers, or water parks, the dangers of having contact with Naegleria fowleri increase. Although infections are extremely rare, they are almost always fatal when they occur, with a mortality rate of 97%.
According to recent studies, climate change may be contributing to a global rise in PAM cases. But where is Naegleria fowleri found? What are the symptoms? And how can it be prevented?
If you're curious to learn the answers to these questions and more, click through this informative gallery.