The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services has confirmed a second death in two weeks related to Naegleria fowleri, commonly known as the "brain-eating amoeba." The teen's identity has been kept private out of respect for the family.
"While these infections are very rare, this is an important reminder that this amoeba is present in our state and across the US. There are steps people can take to reduce their risk of infection while swimming during the warmer months," state epidemiologist Zack Moore, MD, said in a statement in the health department's press release on August 27.
The amoeba is typically found in warm freshwater ponds, lakes, and rivers and enters the body through the nose during activities like swimming or diving.
Indeed, a recent study published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has detected primary amebic meningoencephalitis-causing amoeba in several popular recreation areas across the Western United States, including Yellowstone National Park, Grand Teton National Park, and Lake Mead National Recreation Area. Researchers found the organism in 34% of water samples collected between 2016 and 2024.
Although infections remain extremely rare, the amoeba is highly dangerous. According to the CDC study published on March 2, only four people survived out of 167 reported US cases between 1962 and 2024. Infection occurs when contaminated water enters the nose, often while swimming or diving in lakes, rivers, or hot springs.
Scientists warn the organism has been steadily spreading northward as global temperatures rise, prompting calls for stronger monitoring and public awareness campaigns.
In light of these findings, as temperatures rise and people flock to lakes and water parks, understanding the risks of Naegleria fowleri is becoming increasingly important. Click through this informative gallery to learn more about the deadly amoeba, its symptoms, and how to stay safe.