GREATER TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Earlier this month, Taiwan recorded its second-ever case of Naegleria fowleri infection, with the first case occurring twelve years ago. Given the absence of distinct symptoms, challenges in early detection, and the lack of effective treatment, the fatality rate for Naegleria fowleri infection is over 99 percent.
The woman in her thirties from northern Taiwan contracted Naegleria fowleri, with symptoms like headaches and neck stiffness emerging on July 26. Tragically, the disease rapidly progressed, leading to her tragic passing on Aug. 1.
Before falling ill, the victim visited an indoor aquatic facility in New Taipei City twice, suspected to be the source of the infection. In response to the incident, the New Taipei City Department of Health has requested the facility to close for preventive measures and environmental disinfection temporarily.
Naegleria fowleri, colloquially known as the "brain-eating amoeba," is a single-celled organism commonly found in warm freshwater environments, such as lakes and rivers, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Naegleria fowleri infects individuals when water containing the amoeba enters the body through the nose, typically occurring during activities like swimming, diving, or immersing one's head in freshwater.
If water is aspirated, the amoeba can travel through the nose to the brain, destroying brain tissue and causing the severe infection known as primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM). Naegleria fowleri PAM has an alarmingly high mortality rate, nearly reaching 99 percent.
Tseng Shu-huai, deputy director-general of the CDC, pointed out that Naegleria fowleri is more prevalent during the summer, reminding the public to avoid stirring up sediment in a lake when engaging in natural water bodies.
This incident also emphasizes the need for public caution during activities such as hot spring bathing and water-related sports.