This is what we know about the brain-eating amoeba 1:03
(CNN) - A case of a rare brain-destroying amoeba confirmed in Florida.
The Florida Department of Health (DOH) reported Friday the confirmed case of Naegleria fowleri, a single-cell microscopic amoeba that can infect and destroy the brain. It's usually fatal, the DOH said.
Since 1962, only 37 cases of the amoeba have been reported in Florida. This was found in Hillsborough County, although DOH did not elaborate.
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Naegleria fowleri is typically found in temperate fresh water such as lakes, rivers, and ponds. DOH warned people swimming in those freshwater sources to be aware of the possible presence of the amoeba, particularly when the water is warm.
"Adverse health effects on humans can be prevented by avoiding nasal contact with the waters, as the amoeba enters through the nostrils," DOH explained.
DOH recommended that people avoid warm freshwater bodies around power plants and shallow freshwater during periods of high water temperature. They should cover their nose when playing in warm fresh water.
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Authorities also noted that the amoeba could possibly be exposed through a Neti pot by rinsing out congested breasts.
"Use only boiled and cooled, distilled or sterile water to make sinus rinse solutions for pots or perform ritual ablutions," they noted.
In the United States, 143 cases of amoeba have been infected, according to the Florida Department of Health. Only four have survived.
Ameba Brain Eater
