Officials at Lake Mead National Recreation Area have issued a warning about the presence of a dangerous microorganism in some of the area’s hot springs.
The alert announced on Thursday, October 12, comes after the identification of Naegleria fowleri, commonly known as the brain-eating amoeba, in waters below the Hoover Dam.
This microscopic amoeba can lead to a rare but devastating infection of the brain, known as primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM), when contaminated water enters the nasal passages, typically during swimming or diving. According to reports, the amoeba thrives in warm water environments, a situation exacerbated by climate change, raising concerns about an increase in these habitats and potential risk of exposure.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that while instances of PAM are uncommon, with only 157 known infections in the United States between 1962 and 2022, the disease is frequently fatal. Out of the recorded cases, merely four people have survived, indicating a fatality rate exceeding 97%. Symptoms often initially resemble those of meningitis, including headaches and fever, and quickly progress to more severe neurological effects.
This year alone, the U.S has witnessed at least four fatalities attributed to PAM. The most recent case involved a teenager who encountered the amoeba while visiting the Kingman Wash area of Lake Mead, a popular site for water-based activities. Despite the low incidence of infection, experts emphasize the gravity of the disease and encourage public awareness and preventive measures.
Prevention primarily involves avoiding water-related activities in bodies of warm freshwater, hot springs, warm water discharge from industrial plants, and unchlorinated swimming pools. Officials at Lake Mead are advising visitors to abstain from activities that could result in water going up the nose. They have also advocated for the use of nose clips for those who choose to engage in freshwater activities.
While the presence of Naegleria fowleri in Lake Mead’s hot springs necessitates caution, experts urge the public not to panic, considering the rarity of infections. They recommend staying informed and adhering to safety guidelines to minimize risk. Public health officials continue to monitor the situation and are working to ensure the safety of all visitors to the recreation area.