ID, WA, UT Water Sources Can Contain Brain-Eating Amoebas

The recent story of a Texas woman dying from ingesting water that was infected by a deadly amoeba has reminded people of the dangers of spending time outdoors.

There have been numerous cases of fatalities in the past decade from people ingesting water contaminated with an aggressive microbe throughout the Pacific Northwest. These organisms often enter the body through campground water spigots, or are spread through taking part in such activities as float tubing and kayaking on state waterways.

As a common rule, people should always try to avoid swallowing water from sources found in recreational areas such as a campground. Boiling water is a must for those who don't often travel to the mountains with bottled water. This process kills off most bacteria found in nature, but when spending time on the water, it can be hard to prevent yourself from allowing small amounts of water to enter the body through the mouth, eyes, or nose.

Brain-Eating Amoeba Cause of Death In Nevada, Utah, Florida, and California Cases

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Naegleria fowleri is an amoeba that is found in freshwater sources such as rivers throughout the world, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Doctors have a tough time diagnosing this rare sickness because the symptoms mimic many other illnesses.

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The microbe was determined to be the cause of death in the recent Texas case, as well a 2023 Utah case that claimed a 2-year-old boy, and the 2016 case of a California woman vacationing on the Colorado River.

Naegleria fowleri is found throughout the Pacific Northwest, and there have likely been fatalities from exposure to the bacteria that have gone undocumented by doctors. When cooking and prepping food during campouts, always boil water.

Be careful when camping and taking part in summer activities out on Idaho waters this summer.