A tragic incident involving Naegleria fowleri, commonly known as the brain-eating amoeba, was reported in Karachi. The recent case marked the fifth fatality in Sindh this year, as confirmed by the Sindh Health Department. The deceased was a 19-year-old resident of Karachi’s East district who had been under medical care for 12 days, suffering from severe symptoms.
It was disclosed by a spokesperson for the health department that the young man succumbed to his illness after a nearly two-week struggle. The current death toll in Sindh has now reached five, with four cases occurring in Karachi and one in Hyderabad.
Previously, in June, the National Institute of Health (NIH) had issued an advisory in response to the rising cases of Naegleria fowleri. The advisory emphasized that Pakistan has been reporting cases and deaths due to this brain-eating amoeba since 2008. Karachi was noted as one of the cities where these cases have been most prevalent.
Understanding Naegleria Symptoms and Preventative Measures: Importance of Proper Chlorine Levels
The advisory outlined the symptoms associated with Naegleria, which include high fever, severe headaches, vomiting, and neck stiffness. It was also cautioned that, if untreated, the infection could lead to a coma during its final clinical stages.
In light of the ongoing threat, the water supply department was urged to maintain proper chlorine levels in the water supply. The advisory stressed that insufficient chlorine, particularly in high-temperature conditions, could increase the risk of Naegleria spreading.
The continued rise in Naegleria cases has led to increased vigilance and precautionary measures in affected areas, with health authorities emphasizing the importance of adhering to the safety guidelines provided.
