Karachi records first death from Naegleria fowleri this year

Karachi has recorded its first death from Naegleria this year, with a 36-year-old woman from Gulshan-e-Iqbal succumbing to the brain-eating amoeba, Naegleria fowleri, Express News reported.

According to the Sindh Health Department, the woman first showed symptoms on 18 February 2025. She was admitted to a private hospital on 19 February and passed away on 23 February.

A laboratory report on 24 February confirmed the presence of Naegleria fowleri. Investigations revealed that the woman had not engaged in any water-related activities. However, experts suggest that the infection could have been contracted during the act of performing ablution (wudu), as the deadly amoeba is typically found in warm water and can enter the brain via the nasal passages, causing severe damage.

Initial symptoms of the infection include severe headaches, fever, nausea, neck stiffness, confusion, and unconsciousness, often leading to death within days.

Health professionals recommend the addition of chlorine tablets to water to eliminate harmful pathogens and reduce the risk of infection.