New Delhi: A new study warns that free-living amoebae, often known as brain-eating amoebae, pose a growing threat to public health worldwide. Issues like climate change, old water systems, and a lack of monitoring make it easier for these harmful microbes to spread in our environment.
Longfei Shu, a researcher from Sun Yat-sen University in China, highlights their resilience. “These organisms can survive conditions that kill many other microbes,” he explains. They thrive in high temperatures and can even endure strong disinfectants like chlorine, making them a hidden danger in water systems people usually trust.
Most amoebae are harmless and live in soil and water. However, species like Naegleria fowleri can cause severe infections, particularly through contaminated water entering the nose during swimming. This amoeba has been linked to several fatalities in Kerala recently.
These amoebae don’t just act alone; they can harbor harmful bacteria and viruses inside their cells. This “Trojan horse” effect means that disinfectants may not effectively eliminate these pathogens, which can contribute to the spread of antibiotic resistance.
Climate change is likely to make matters worse. As temperatures rise, heat-loving amoebae could spread to areas where they were once rare. Recent outbreaks related to recreational water use have already alarmed many countries.
Experts call for a coordinated approach that combines human health, environmental science, and water management. Stronger surveillance and improved diagnostic tools are essential to address this issue before infections occur. Employing advanced water treatment technologies can help reduce risks significantly.
“Amoebae are not just a medical or environmental issue,” Shu emphasizes. “They exist at the intersection of both, and tackling them requires integrated solutions that prioritize public health.”
The situation highlights the importance of awareness and proactive measures in keeping our water systems safe. A study published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found that between 2010 and 2019, there were 34 reported cases of Naegleria fowleri infections in the U.S., emphasizing that this is not just a local issue but a global concern that demands immediate action.
For more information on public health threats, you can refer to the CDC’s official page on Naegleria fowleri.
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Brain-eating amoebae, Public health threat, Water safety, Climate change impact, Naegleria fowleri
