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Primary amebic meningoencephalitis--Georgia, 2002

    MMWR. Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report
    |October 10, 2003
    PubMed

    Insights

    A fatal case of primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM) caused by Naegleria fowleri occurred in an 11-year-old boy after swimming. Health officials advised avoiding the river during high temperatures and low water levels to prevent further infections.

    Area of Science:

    • Infectious Disease Epidemiology
    • Public Health Surveillance
    • Environmental Health

    Background:

    • Primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM) is a rare and almost always fatal infection.
    • Naegleria fowleri is a free-living ameba found in warm freshwater environments.
    • Infection typically occurs when contaminated water enters the nasal passages.

    Observation:

    • A case of PAM was reported in an 11-year-old boy in Georgia in September 2002.
    • The boy had recently swum in a local river before falling ill.
    • The Georgia Division of Public Health and CDC investigated the fatal case.

    Findings:

    • The investigation confirmed Naegleria fowleri as the causative agent of PAM.
    • The identified risk factor was swimming in the local river.
    • The case highlights the potential for Naegleria fowleri transmission in recreational waters.

    Implications:

    • Public health recommendations were issued to avoid swimming in the affected river.
    • Advice focused on avoiding water entry into the nose during high temperatures and low water levels.
    • This case underscores the importance of public awareness regarding Naegleria fowleri risks in warm freshwater.

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