Tragic Death of Israeli Man from Rare Brain-Eating Amoeba

An Israeli man has tragically passed away after contracting encephalitis caused by the rare Naegleria fowleri amoeba. This marks only the second recorded case of such an infection in Israel, as confirmed by Beilinson Hospital on Sunday.

Naegleria fowleri, commonly referred to as the “brain-eating amoeba,” is typically found in soil and warm freshwater environments such as lakes, rivers, and hot springs. It can cause severe brain infections when contaminated water enters the body through the nose, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The victim, a healthy 25-year-old man, likely encountered the amoeba while swimming at Gai Beach on the shores of the Kinneret in northern Israel. He was initially admitted to Sharon Hospital with symptoms of fever, headaches, and vomiting. As his condition worsened, he was transferred to Beilinson Hospital in Petah Tikvah for advanced treatment.

Despite exhaustive medical efforts, including drug treatments and surgical interventions, the man’s condition continued to decline, leading to his death. Beilinson Hospital stated, “From the moment he was hospitalized, medical teams used everything at their disposal to save the patient’s life, but his condition continued to deteriorate.”

While Naegleria fowleri thrives in warm water, most individuals who swim in these environments do not become infected. The Israeli Health Ministry dispatched environmental health inspectors to examine Gai Beach, but initial tests did not reveal any contamination.

The Health Ministry is continuing its investigation and will update the public as necessary.

Naegleria fowleri infections are extremely rare but almost always fatal. According to the CDC, only about 400 cases have been recorded worldwide. Symptoms typically appear within one to nine days of exposure and include headaches, fever, nausea, vomiting, and a stiff neck, progressing to neurological symptoms such as confusion, seizures, and hallucinations. Immediate medical attention is crucial for anyone showing signs of infection.

Additional Information and Preventive Measures

Naegleria fowleri infections are often associated with activities in warm freshwater during the summer months. The amoeba enters the brain through the nasal passages, making it crucial to avoid getting water up the nose. Preventive measures recommended by health authorities include:

1. Avoiding Water Activities in Warm Freshwater: Particularly in areas with reported cases of Naegleria fowleri.
2. Using Nose Clips: When engaging in water-related activities in warm freshwater.
3. Avoiding Disturbing Sediment: In shallow, warm freshwater areas where the amoeba might reside.

Research and awareness are vital to prevent such infections. The CDC provides comprehensive guidelines and updates on Naegleria fowleri, emphasizing the importance of public education in reducing the risk of exposure.

Sources:

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
   “Naegleria fowleri – Primary Amebic Meningoencephalitis (PAM).” CDC Website
2. World Health Organization (WHO).
   “Naegleria Infection.” WHO Website
3. Beilinson Hospital.
   Official Statement on Patient’s Condition and Treatment Efforts.
4. The Times of Israel.
   “Man Dies After Contracting Brain-Eating Amoeba in Israel’s 2nd Ever Recorded Case.” The Times of Israel