Child’s death from ‘brain-eating’ amoeba investigated

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The Ceará Health Department (Sesa) is investigating the death of a child aged 1 year and 7 months in Caucaia, allegedly caused by a rare infection by the amoeba Naegleria fowleri, known as “brain eater”. If confirmed, primary amoebic meningoencephalitis could represent the first official case registered in Brazil.

The case began in September 2024, when the child developed a sore throat, followed by a high fever, constant vomiting and neurological signs, such as convulsions and stiffness in the back of the neck. The infection was diagnosed only after death, and tests in the water reservoir of the victim’s house confirmed the presence of the amoeba.

Amoeba investigation and diagnosis Naegleria fowleri

According to Antonio Silva Lima Neto, executive secretary of Health Surveillance at Sesa, the disease presents symptoms similar to those of classic meningitis, making diagnosis difficult.

“It is a disease in which contamination only really occurs through the nostrils. It’s very rare. In Brazil, there are no officially confirmed cases to date. This probably occurs because there is no suspicion, it is very difficult to suspect because it is a very rare event and the cases described to date are cases that almost always lead to death”, said Antônio Silva, Executive Secretary of Health Surveillance.

Parasitologist pharmacist Ticiana Mont Alverne highlighted to Diário do Nordeste that the disease has a fatality rate of 97% and rapid evolution, with death generally occurring between seven and 14 days after infection. The presence of the amoeba in the residence’s reservoir was confirmed by the Adolfo Lutz Institute.

According to experts, the Naegleria fowleri It is found in warm, still waters, such as untreated lakes and swimming pools, and is sensitive to chlorination. Although uncommon, it can affect healthy individuals, including children and young people.

Prevention actions

• After confirming the case, Sesa and Caucaia City Hall implemented actions to readjust the water supply system, including improvements in chlorination and filtration.
• Tests carried out at other points, such as lakes and the reservoir responsible for local water supply, did not detect the presence of the amoeba.
• Furthermore, the Municipal Health Department (SMS) of Caucaia distributed sodium hypochlorite and carried out educational campaigns with the community to provide guidance on water hygiene and the risks of contamination.
• Experts emphasize the importance of avoiding contact with still and hot water, especially in places without adequate treatment.
• Maintaining water tanks and correct chlorination are effective measures to prevent the presence of protozoa.