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Published on: 7/23/2025

How to prevent brain-eating amoeba infection?

To prevent brain-eating amoeba infections, avoid swimming in warm freshwater and use properly treated water for activities like swimming and splashing.

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Explanation

Brain-eating amoeba, known scientifically as Naegleria fowleri, is a rare but deadly organism found in warm freshwater. It can cause severe infections when water containing the amoeba enters the body through the nose.

Prevention Tips

  1. Avoid Warm Freshwater: Try not to swim in warm freshwater lakes, rivers, or hot springs, especially during hot weather.
  2. Use Properly Treated Water: Ensure water in pools and splash pads is treated with appropriate chemicals, like chlorine, to kill the amoeba.
  3. Nasal Protection: Keep your head above water in potentially risky environments, or use nose clips to prevent water from entering your nose.
  4. Avoid Stirring Up Sediment: If you are in a natural body of water, try not to disturb the sediment, as the amoeba can live in the bottom soil.

By following these steps, you can reduce your risk of infection from this dangerous organism. Always ensure that any water used for recreational purposes is properly treated and safe.

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