Alert in Nevada for ‘brain-eating’ amoeba in hot springs

Nevada authorities alerted citizens about a "brain-eating" amoeba that has a mortality rate from infection close to 100% and is present in Lake Mead. The bacteria causes a devastating infection called primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM). It is different from Vibrio vulnificus, the bacteria known as "flesh-eating."

According to the Lake Mead National Recreation Area, Naegleria fowleri, popularly known as the "brain-eating amoeba," was found in hot springs below the Hoover Dam.

"Naegleria fowleri has been found in hot springs. This amoeba enters through the nose and can cause a deadly infection that causes a sudden and severe headache, fever, and vomiting," said a spokesperson for the Lake Mead National Recreation Area in a conversation with Fox News.

Authorities recommend avoiding diving or swimming in hot springs

Likewise, authorities recommend visitors avoid diving, splashing water or soaking in hot springs in the state. "In the U.S., there have been at least four reported deaths this year from the infection, which occurs when the amoeba enters the nose during submersion in fresh water, usually while swimming," authorities explained.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention explained that "Naegleria fowleri lives in warm, fresh water and soils around the world. … Amoebas can be present in any body of freshwater in the United States, regardless of state, especially during the warmer months of July, August and September."

"Infection with PAM is rare. The early symptoms of PAM are similar to those caused by other more common illnesses, such as bacterial meningitis. People should seek medical care immediately whenever they develop a sudden onset of fever, headache, vomiting, or stiff neck, particularly if they have been in warm fresh water recently," the CDC added.