ISLAMABAD: The Health Department of Sindh, Pakistan’s southern province, has confirmed another death from Naegleria fowleri, a deadly brain-eating amoeba, marking the fourth casualty from the disease this year.
According to officials, a 17-year-old student began experiencing sudden symptoms of fever, body aches, and vomiting on June 25. He was admitted to Aga Khan University Hospital the following day, where he tested positive for the deadly Naegleria fowleri infection. By June 27, his condition worsened, and he was placed on ventilator support.
Officials noted that the patient had no history of swimming, suggesting that he likely contracted the infection through contaminated or non-chlorinated tap water.
According to the US Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Naegleria fowleri is an amoeba commonly found in soil and warm freshwater sources such as lakes, rivers, ponds, and hot springs around the world. In rare cases, it has also been detected in poorly maintained swimming pools, splash pads, and other recreational water venues.
The amoeba can cause a rare but deadly brain infection known as primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM) if contaminated water enters the body through the nose and reaches the brain.
Naegleria fowleri infection presents with symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, vomiting, and neck stiffness. In its advanced stages, the infection can lead to coma and, ultimately, death.
In Pakistan, most infections have been linked to the use of tap water containing Naegleria fowleri for nasal rinsing or sinus cleansing.
Cases have been rising in recent years, with over 100 deaths reported since the first confirmed case in 2008. In 2024 alone, five fatalities were recorded.
