Obituary – Death – Cause of Death News :

Rare Case of Brain-Eating Amoeba Claims Life of 22-Year-Old in Pakistan

In a tragic incident that has shocked the nation, a 22-year-old man named Aurangzeb has died of primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM) in Karachi, Pakistan. This rare disease of the central nervous system is caused by Naegleria fowleri, commonly known as the ‘brain-eating’ amoeba.

Aurangzeb contracted the deadly infection after a picnic with friends at a farmhouse in Quaidabad, where they went for a swim. Just a day after the picnic, he started showing symptoms such as nausea and fever. He was admitted to the hospital on July 10, and the virus was confirmed on July 11. Despite receiving treatment at the Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre, Aurangzeb tragically succumbed to the infection.

This is the third reported case of PAM in Karachi this year, with previous cases reported in Korangi and Malir. The infection has claimed the lives of several people across Pakistan, with a fatality rate of 98%. Naegleria fowleri, the amoeba responsible for the infection, is commonly found in warm freshwater and soil.

The infection occurs when water containing the amoeba enters the body through the nose, often during activities like swimming or diving. Once in the brain, the amoeba causes severe damage and leads to rapid progression of symptoms. Early signs of PAM include headache, fever, and nausea, followed by more severe symptoms like confusion, seizures, and coma.

It is crucial to avoid swimming in warm freshwater bodies to prevent the risk of contracting PAM. By raising awareness about the dangers of Naegleria fowleri and taking necessary precautions, we can help prevent further tragedies like the one that befell Aurangzeb.

When news broke that a 22-year-old in Karachi, Pakistan had passed away due to a “brain-eating” amoeba, it sent shockwaves through the community. This tragic incident marks the third such case in Karachi this year, raising concerns about the safety of water sources and the potential risks posed by these deadly organisms. But what exactly is this brain-eating amoeba, and how does it claim lives? Let’s delve deeper into this alarming issue.

### What is a brain-eating amoeba?

The brain-eating amoeba, also known as Naegleria fowleri, is a single-celled organism that thrives in warm freshwater environments such as lakes, rivers, and hot springs. While the amoeba is harmless when ingested through drinking water, it can be deadly if it enters the body through the nose. Once inside the nasal cavity, the amoeba travels to the brain, where it causes a rare but severe infection known as primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM).

### How does the brain-eating amoeba infect humans?

The most common way for the brain-eating amoeba to infect humans is through activities such as swimming, diving, or other water sports in contaminated bodies of water. When water containing the amoeba enters the nasal passages, it can travel to the brain and cause infection. Symptoms of PAM include severe headache, fever, nausea, vomiting, and confusion, which can quickly progress to coma and death if left untreated.

### What are the risk factors for contracting the brain-eating amoeba?

Individuals who engage in water-related activities in warm freshwater environments are at a higher risk of contracting the brain-eating amoeba. Additionally, activities that involve submerging the head or diving into water can increase the likelihood of exposure. It is crucial to avoid swimming in warm freshwater sources, especially during hot summer months when the amoeba is most active.

### How can the risk of infection be minimized?

To reduce the risk of contracting the brain-eating amoeba, it is essential to follow certain precautions when engaging in water activities. These include using nose clips or keeping the head above water while swimming, avoiding underwater activities in warm freshwater sources, and refraining from stirring up sediment that may contain the amoeba. It is also important to ensure that water sources are properly treated and maintained to prevent contamination.

### What is the treatment for brain-eating amoeba infection?

Unfortunately, the prognosis for individuals infected with the brain-eating amoeba is often poor, as the infection progresses rapidly and can be challenging to diagnose and treat. Current treatment options include antifungal medications, antibiotics, and other supportive care measures to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms. However, the mortality rate for PAM is high, with only a few reported cases of survival.

### What can be done to raise awareness and prevent future cases?

Raising awareness about the risks associated with the brain-eating amoeba and educating the public about preventive measures are crucial steps in preventing future cases. Public health authorities should provide information about safe water practices, conduct regular testing of water sources for contamination, and implement measures to improve water quality. By taking these proactive steps, communities can work together to minimize the risk of infection and protect public health.

In conclusion, the recent tragedy in Karachi serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by the brain-eating amoeba and the importance of water safety measures. By understanding the risks, taking precautions, and raising awareness, we can help prevent future cases and protect individuals from this deadly organism. It is essential to prioritize public health and safety, especially in areas where the brain-eating amoeba is prevalent, to prevent further loss of life. Let us continue to stay informed, vigilant, and proactive in combating this silent but deadly threat.

Sources:
1. [https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2021/10/29/brain-eating-amoeba-claims-life-of-22-year-old-in-pakistans-karachi](https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2021/10/29/brain-eating-amoeba-claims-life-of-22-year-old-in-pakistans-karachi)
2. [https://www.dawn.com/news/1655167](https://www.dawn.com/news/1655167)
3. [https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/naegleria-fowleri](https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/naegleria-fowleri)