The Center for Disease Control said Friday that primary amebic meningoencephalitis, or PAM, is the cause of the 2007 deaths. The amoeba, called Naegleria fowleri, is the culprit of the condition and is found in warm water such as lakes, hot springs, ponds, and even dirty pools. It enters the body through the nose and attaches itself to the olfactory nerve, where it moves into the brain, feeding on brain cells.
According to the CDC there have been several cases around the world since its discovery in Australia in 1960. While Naegleria infections are relatively rare, they thrive in warmth, and experts expect to see more cases in the coming years with the predicted warming of the planet.
The father of a 14-year-old boy who was killed by the ameoba reportedly said he or his family had no idea what happened to the boy. He said his son complained of a headache that wouldn't go away. By the time he was hospitalized he was beyond saving.
According to health officials, once infected, it is virtually impossible to save the victims, who usually die within two weeks. Symptoms include headache, stiff neck, nausea, vomiting, and fever. In the later stages patients exhibit dementia and have hallucinations.
Scientists say boys and young men are affected at a much higher rate than girls, but do not yet know why. One theory is that they are more rambunctious in the water, and water must be pushed hard up the nose for the amoebas to latch on.
The CDC reported 121 people have been infected in 15 southern states over the last 71 years.
Officials recommend swimming with nose plugs to those who want to take precautions in the water, as well as avoiding warm standing water and areas where there are algae blooms.
