Common Illnesses and Diseases While Travelling and Backpacking  

 

Naeglaria / Primary amoebic meningoencephalitis

Naeglaria fowleri is a free-living amoebae, which is found worldwide. It has been isolated from soil, rivers and lake water, and thermally polluted water. The Naeglaria gain access to the brain by direct invasion through the nasal mucosal membrane. The encephalitis occurs in healthy children or adults, who recently have been swimming or diving in warm, fresh water.

Manifestation: Onset symptoms starts after 2 to 8 days with:
• Fewer
• Headache
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Anorexia
• Confusion
• Convulsions
• Coma
• Untreated death within a week.

Diagnosis and treatment: Diagnosis is given by performing lumbar puncture and testing cerebro-spinal fluid. . Treatment is possible.

Prevent Naegleria by:
• Avoid swimming in stagnant, warm fresh water
• Don’t swim in polluted water
• Keep your nose out of the water


 

 

The contents above, from www.best-backpackers-insurance.co.uk is for information purposes only and cannot substitute for professional health care or any other medical treatment. All users of this website with any health problems should always consult their medical doctor or go directly to a hospital or clinic in their destination before starting any treatment.