Florida Health Officials Investigating After Person Dies From Rare Brain-Eating Amoeba Infection

A person in Florida has died after recently coming down with a rare infection from a brain-eating amoeba.

The case was confirmed by Florida Department of Health officials in Charlotte County last month. The individual’s identity, meanwhile, has not been officially released. According to officials, the person’s infection may have been brought on by the use of tap water when rinsing their sinuses.

In a comment provided to CNN on Thursday, a Florida Department of Health rep said the infection “unfortunately resulted in a death.” An investigation remains ongoing.

Complex has reached out to the Florida Department of Health for comment. This story may be updated.

The infection is that of the single-celled organism species Naegleria fowleri. Infections, though rare, can occur when water containing this amoeba enters a person’s body through their nose. Drinking such water, notably, does not lead to infection. As the CDC outlines in its explainer on the brain-eating amoeba, this can lead to what’s called primary amebic meningoencephalitis, which is “almost always fatal.”

Amid the investigation, local health authorities have shared a list of recommended actions for those in the Charlotte County region. Advised to-dos include only using distilled or sterile water for sinus solutions (tap water should always be boiled and then cooled) and avoiding putting one’s head under bathing water.

As of late last month, the Florida Department of Health was monitoring “any indications of additional infections” in the area. Those experiencing possible symptoms (fever, vomiting, stiff neck, etc.) are urged to seek medical help if such feelings are observed after contact with water.