Naegleria is a genus of free-living amoebae found in aquatic environments. Naegleria fowleri is referred as "brain-eating amoeba". It cause a rare but deadly infection called primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM).
Key Points about Naegleria fowleri
Habitat
Found in warm freshwater environments such as lakes, ponds, rivers, hot springs and poorly maintained swimming pools
1
Temperature
It thrives in waters with temperatures between 25°C to 46°C (77°F to 115°F).
2
Infection
When enters the body through the nose it causes serious infection called primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM).
3
Route of infection
It travel from the nasal cavity to the brain through the olfactory nerve.
4
Illness
It can lead to inflammation and destruction of brain tissue.