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 time frame 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.