NC health officials identify likely source of brain-eating amoeba that killed teen

DURHAM, N.C. – The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services has identified the likely source of a rare and deadly brain-eating amoeba that killed a teenager late last month.

State officials say a water feature at a community-based mental health center in Durham is the most probable source of exposure. The teen had reportedly splashed water on their face in a timeframe that matched the exposure period.

The water feature remains closed.

Health officials reiterate the organism enters through the nose in warm freshwater. Symptoms commonly include severe fever, nausea, and a stiff neck, progressing to death within five days once onset begins.