As temperatures rise across Texas, many families head to lakes, rivers, and other freshwater destinations to cool off. While these activities are a cherished part of summer, they also bring renewed questions about a rare but devastating infection caused by Naegleria fowleri, often referred to as the "brain-eating amoeba."

As a trusted Mansfield pediatrician, Dr. Julie Tomberlin believes that awareness and education are some of the most powerful tools parents have to keep their children safe.

What is Naegleria fowleri?

Naegleria fowleri is a microscopic amoeba that naturally lives in warm freshwater environments such as lakes, rivers, ponds, and hot springs. In very rare cases, it can cause a serious brain infection called Primary Amebic Meningoencephalitis (PAM).

PAM occurs when contaminated water enters the nose, allowing the amoeba to travel to the brain. Importantly, people cannot become infected by drinking contaminated water.

Although PAM is extremely rare, it is often severe and progresses rapidly, making early recognition critical.

Recognizing the Symptoms

Early symptoms can resemble meningitis and may include:

• Severe headache
• Fever
• Nausea and vomiting
• Neck stiffness
• Sensitivity to light
• Confusion
• Changes in behavior
• Seizures

Symptoms typically begin within 1 to 12 days after exposure to contaminated freshwater and can worsen quickly.

A Personal Reminder of Why Awareness Matters

Many Texas families became aware of PAM following the tragic loss of Kyle Lewis. His family's commitment to education and advocacy has helped increase awareness about this rare infection and provided valuable resources for families, schools, and communities.

The Kyle Lewis Amoeba Awareness Foundation continues to honor his legacy by promoting education, awareness, and water safety.

How Can Families Reduce Risk?

While PAM remains extraordinarily uncommon, the following precautions may help reduce risk when swimming in warm freshwater:

• Avoid forcing water up the nose while swimming.
• Use nose clips when diving, water skiing, wakeboarding, tubing, or participating in other water sports.
• Avoid stirring up sediment in shallow, warm freshwater areas.
• Keep your head above water when possible in warm freshwater lakes and rivers.
• Use only sterile, distilled, or previously boiled water for nasal rinses and sinus irrigation.

When Should Parents Seek Medical Care?

If your child develops severe headache, fever, vomiting, neck stiffness, confusion, or other concerning symptoms after recent freshwater exposure, seek immediate medical attention and inform healthcare providers about the water exposure history.

Trusted Resources

CDC Naegleria fowleri Information:
https://www.cdc.gov/naegleria/

Kyle Lewis Amoeba Awareness Foundation:
http://www.kylelewisamoebaawareness.org

At Julie Tomberlin MD PA, Dr. Julie Tomberlin MD and her excellent nurse practitioners are committed to helping Mansfield families stay informed about important pediatric health concerns. Our goal is to provide evidence-based guidance so parents can make confident decisions for their children.

Families looking for a pediatrician in Mansfield, Texas can rely on Julie Tomberlin MD PA for compassionate pediatric care, preventive health guidance, and support throughout every stage of childhood.

Questions about your child's health or summer safety?

Dr. Julie Tomberlin MD and her excellent nurse practitioners are here to help.

Call Julie Tomberlin MD PA today at 682-518-8111

Visit us online at https://jt-md.com