
"Water Expert Warns of Brain-Eating Amoeba Outbreak in Southwest Florida"
A water expert from FGCU's Water School has warned swimmers in Southwest Florida about the presence of brain-eating amoeba, which thrives in warm and wet environments. The amoeba can be found in fresh water bodies such as rivers, puddles, mud, and poorly maintained swimming pools with low chlorine levels. It poses a serious threat if it enters the body through the nose, potentially causing a fatal infection. To prevent infection, swimmers are advised to avoid jumping or diving directly into the water, wear a nose clip, and seek immediate medical attention if symptoms such as headaches, stiff neck, nausea, or vomiting occur. Texas currently leads in the number of cases in the US, followed by Florida.