Korean man dies after contracting brain-eating amoeba, learn what it is
A Korean man died in Thailand after contracting a brain-eating amoeba.
The brain-eating amoeba (Naegleria Fowleri) is commonly found in warm water at 25 degrees Celsius, usually in warm freshwater such as lakes, rivers and ponds, and is most fertile at 46 degrees Celsius. The brain-eating amoeba enters the body through the nasal cavity and causes brain infection.
The golden period for treatment of brain-eating amoeba infection is very short, and the mortality rate is as high as 96%. Symptoms of brain-eating amoeba infection include headache, fever, nausea, and later, stiff neck, hallucinations, loss of balance, and confusion. The incubation period is up to 12 days, with death usually occurring within 18 days.
According to the Ministry of Health, there have been no cases of brain-eating amoeba in Malaysia, but people are urged to be more careful when engaging in freshwater activities. Wash your body with water and soap after activities in freshwater lakes, ponds or rivers, and seek immediate medical attention if you develop fever, headache, vomiting and stiff neck.
