The deadly brain-eating amoeba that killed a Mérida man has now been detected in 6 artificial lakes

Health authorities in Yucatán state have detected Naegleria fowleri, the brain-eating amoeba responsible for a fatal infection in a 34-year-old man in Mérida, in six artificial lakes. All six lakes have been closed off and an investigation has been launched. Naegleria fowleri, which causes a rare and nearly always fatal brain infection called primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM), was found in six out of nine lakes examined.

It thrives in stagnant freshwater, particularly at temperatures between 95-115°F. The organism enters the body when water containing it enters the nose and travels to the brain, causing severe swelling and brain tissue destruction. Health officials are urging the public to avoid contact with the contaminated water and have marked the affected areas with barriers and warning signs.

Remediation efforts are underway in collaboration with experts from the Autonomous University of Yucatán and the Instituto Politécnico Nacional. The government has also increased health surveillance protocols in the area.