Naegleria fowleri infections are very rare but severe. From 2002 to 2011, 32 infections were reported in the U.S. All were fatal. Naegleria fowleri is a warm water-loving ameba found around the world, often in warm or hot freshwater (lakes, rivers, and hot springs). Naegleria fowleri ameba can travel up the nose and into the brain. This causes the disease primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM), which destroys brain tissue and causes brain swelling and death. Of 123 people known to be infected in the U.S. since 1962, only one person has survived. 1/16/13: date from document properties. CS235438A

Stephen B. Thacker CDC Library collection