KARACHI:Deadly Naegleria fowleri, brain-eating amoeba, has claimed another life in Karachi on Saturday, taking the death toll to 14 since 1st Jan.
According to Director General Health Sindh Dr Masood Ahmed Solangi, a 26-year old man, Akbar Asad, died in Aga Khan Hospital (AKH) during treatment due to brain-eating amoeba.
At least 14 people – 13 males and one female – have, so far, died from brain-eating Naegleria fowleri in Karachi. All deaths were reported in private and public sector hospitals of Karachi from 14 April to date.
The Naegleria infections occur when contaminated water from sources such as inadequately chlorinated water of swimming pools or contaminated tap water enters the nose when people submerge their heads in water; cleanse their noses during religious practices.
The brain-eating amoeba enters through a person’s nose and starts consuming brain tissue. The amoeba loves warm water and can survive in high temperatures. The fresh water bodies such as ponds, lakes, swimming pools, as well as underground and overhead tanks are the most common points.