CHARLOTTE — The North Carolina teen who contracted a rare infection from a brain-eating amoeba died Monday, NCDHHS confirmed.
State health officials said the teen fell seriously ill Thursday after coming into contact with Naegleria fowleri, a microscopic organism that can damage the brain.
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The amoeba is typically found in warm freshwater environments such as ponds, lakes and rivers. State health officials noted the organism is not found in salt water or in properly maintained and chlorinated swimming pools.
Most cases occur late in the summer when water temperatures are high.
Officials say it’s important to prevent water going up your nose in freshwater, especially during times of high water temperatures. Avoid putting your head underwater in hot springs and thermal waters, and don’t dig or stir up sediment.
Officials didn’t say where the teen contracted the illness, but NCDHHS is working with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and local health departments to investigate the possible source.
To protect the family’s privacy, officials said they will not share any further information about the teen.