Nine-year-old boy in serious condition after infection caused by brain-eating amoeba

A nine-year-old boy is in serious condition at Rambam Medical Center after contracting Naegleria Fowleri, commonly known as the 'brain-eating amoeba.' The Health Ministry confirmed the diagnosis on Saturday night, noting the boy developed encephalitis with brain swelling and is currently sedated and ventilated. An investigation revealed he had swum at Kursi Beach in the Kinneret approximately a week prior to hospitalization. The amoeba, found in warm freshwater, can cause a central nervous system infection if water enters the nose. The ministry emphasized that the infection is extremely rare, with fewer than 500 cases worldwide and three in Israel in recent years, and cannot be contracted by drinking water or from person to person. To minimize risk, the public is advised to avoid getting water in the nose, especially when diving, and to avoid disturbing sediment in shallow water. Immediate medical attention is recommended for symptoms like fever, severe headaches, nausea, or changes in consciousness after freshwater exposure.