22-Year-Old Man Dies of Brain-Eating Amoeba Infection in Pakistan

A tragic incident has occurred in Pakistan, where a 22-year-old man named Aurangzeb has died of primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM), a rare disease caused by the brain-eating amoeba Naegleria fowleri. This marks the third casualty of PAM in Karachi this year, highlighting the severity of this deadly infection.

Aurangzeb contracted the disease after going on a picnic with his friends at a farmhouse in Quaidabad, where they indulged in a swim. Shortly after, he began experiencing symptoms like nausea and fever, prompting his admission to the hospital. Despite efforts to treat him at the Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre, Aurangzeb succumbed to the virus, adding to the growing number of PAM cases in the city.

This recent incident underscores the ongoing threat posed by Naegleria fowleri in Pakistan, with previous cases reported in Korangi and Malir. The infection, which is fatal in 98% of cases, has claimed the lives of numerous individuals across the country. The amoeba is commonly found in warm freshwater and soil, making it crucial to exercise caution when swimming or diving in such environments.

Symptoms of PAM typically manifest within five days of infection and may include headache, fever, nausea, and stiffness in the neck. As the disease progresses rapidly, it often leads to coma and death within a short span of time. To prevent the spread of the infection, it is essential to avoid exposing oneself to contaminated water sources and adhere to proper hygiene practices.

In light of this unfortunate incident, it is imperative for individuals to stay informed about the risks associated with Naegleria fowleri and take necessary precautions to safeguard their health and well-being. Let us all remain vigilant and prioritize our safety in the face of this deadly threat.

‘Brain-eating’ amoeba claims life of 22-year-old in Pakistan’s Karachi, makes it third such case this year

The recent tragic incident in Karachi, Pakistan, involving a 22-year-old who fell victim to a brain-eating amoeba has once again highlighted the dangers posed by this deadly organism. This marks the third such case in the city this year, sparking fear and concern among residents.

What is a brain-eating amoeba?

Naegleria fowleri, commonly known as the brain-eating amoeba, is a single-celled organism that thrives in warm freshwater environments. When contaminated water enters the body through the nose, the amoeba can travel to the brain, causing a rare but often fatal infection known as primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM).

How does the infection occur?

In most cases, infection occurs when individuals engage in activities such as swimming or diving in warm bodies of freshwater, where the amoeba is present. Once inside the body, the amoeba travels through the nasal passages to the brain, where it begins to destroy brain tissue.

What are the symptoms of infection?

Symptoms of PAM typically start within a few days of exposure and may include headache, fever, nausea, vomiting, and a stiff neck. As the infection progresses, individuals may experience seizures, hallucinations, and coma. Without prompt treatment, PAM is almost always fatal.

How can the infection be prevented?

To reduce the risk of infection, it is important to avoid activities that involve warm freshwater sources, especially in regions where Naegleria fowleri is known to be present. Individuals can also protect themselves by using nose clips or holding their noses shut while swimming in potentially contaminated water.

In light of this recent tragedy, health officials in Karachi are urging residents to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to protect themselves from this deadly amoeba. By raising awareness and promoting education about the risks associated with Naegleria fowleri, we can work towards preventing future cases and saving lives.

Sources:
– BBC News
– Al Jazeera