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Health — Environment

North Carolina Teen Dies After Contracting Rare Brain-Eating Amoeba

The microscopic organism is typically found in warm freshwater such as ponds and rivers.

,   and  TIPP Staff
2 min read
North Carolina teen dies from rare brain-eating amoeba typically linked to freshwater swimming. Pic via(@nypost)

A North Carolina teenager has died after contracting Naegleria fowleri, a rare amoeba that can cause a deadly brain infection, state health officials confirmed Monday.

The microscopic organism is typically found in warm freshwater such as ponds and rivers. Infection can occur when contaminated water enters the nose and reaches the brain.

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The teenager, Moises Ponce Mendoza, developed severe headaches on August 21. His condition later worsened rapidly, prompting his mother, Monica Mendoza, to take him to UNC Hospitals.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services are investigating the source of the infection.

Health officials advise swimmers in warm freshwater to keep their heads above water or hold their noses shut, and to avoid jumping into water or disturbing sediment during periods of high temperatures.

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