Health Officials Warn Of Brain Eating Amoeba!

This organism makes the coronavirus look like a "walk in the park."  Heath Officials across the country are warning of a brain eating Amoeba that thrives when the water warms up in lakes and in rivers.  Also known as Naegleria fowleri, this single-celled organism enters the body through the nose, travels up the olfactory nerve to the brain, where it multiplies and begins feeding on brain tissue.  97% of the cases are fatal according to an article on Insider.com.  So you're telling me there's a chance?!

As the water warms up, these organisms thrive.  If you ingest Naegleria fowleri through the mouth, they're harmless.  If they enter through your nose, that's another story.  Experts suggest wearing a nose clip when you swim or do not put your head under the water.  Stirring up the sediment on the bottom of the lake or river will also increase your chance of encounter this brain eating Amoeba, as that's where they live.

According to Insider.com Infections have been relatively rare in the United States (the CDC has recorded 145 attacks since the 60s), but some experts say they are becoming more and more common as waters heat across the northern hemisphere.  Young children are usually the victims.

So what are the symptoms of the brain eating Amoeba?  They are very similar to Meningitis.  Your head will be pounding, strong neck pain and you might be sensitive to light.  All symptoms of Meningitis.  Doctors will start treating you for Meningitis and after a couple of days it will be to late.  Victims usually die within a week.

The good news, we've never had a case of Naegleria fowleri in North Dakota before.  However, Minnesota has had a couple.  As the water warms, some experts say it's only a matter of time.  We've had a very warm Summer in Bismarck, with more 90 degree days than any other city in the state.  This is going to be another warm week,  might be a good idea to keep your nose out of the water.