Heat Wave Could Increase Risk For PAM Infections: County

WASHINGTON COUNTY — As Minnesotans brave the second heat wave of the summer, Washington County reminds residents of the rising risk of P.A.M. infections.

Primary amebic meningoencephalitis is a severe brain infection caused by an ameba called Naegleria fowleri, which is found in warm freshwater and soil, the county said. The infection occurs when the Naegleria fowleri gets into the nose and travels to the brain, according to county officials.

Infections are rare and usually occur during heat waves, which cause higher water temperatures and lower water levels, the county said.

Here are some ways to avoid P.A.M. infections:

• Try to limit the amount of water that goes up your nose while swimming, either by keeping your head above water or by using nose clips or plugging your nose.
• Avoid freshwater when the water temperature is high and the water level is low.
• Avoid digging or stirring up sediment in bodies of freshwater.

You should seek immediate medical attention if you have a sudden fever, headache, stiff neck, and vomiting, and have been in warm freshwater within two weeks of symptoms, the county said.

Washington County said that it has seen two children die of illnesses related to P.A.M. infections in the past.

You can find more information on P.A.M. infections and Naegleria fowleri here.