Chapter 5, Problem 1CF

Summary Introduction

To determine:

The way by which Naegleria fowleri is transmitted

Introduction:

Amoeba is a eukaryotic organism, which has the ability to change its shape by extending or retracting pseudopods. It is highly motile and unicellular organism. Amoeba belongs to the kingdom protozoa. Protozoa are defined as single-celled eukaryotic organisms that are either free-living or parasitic. They used to absorb nutrients from dead and decaying matter.

Explanation of Solution

Naegleria fowleri is a brain-eating amoeba, which causes severe and deadly infection in the brain called naegleriasis. It is transmitted through swimming in pools, stagnant ponds, freshwater lakes, thermal springs, hot tubs, and spas contaminated with this amoeba. It is also transmitted by inhalation of cysts found in dust and soil particles. The bacteria invade the brain and meninges through the nasal mucosa.

Conclusion

The brain-eating amoeba such as Naegleria fowleri is transmitted by swimming in pools, stagnant ponds, thermal springs or inhalation of spores that are found in dust and soil particles.

Summary Introduction

To determine:

The way by which infection caused by Naegleria fowleri is prevented.

Introduction:

Amoeba is a eukaryotic organism, which has the ability to change its shape by extending or retracting pseudopods. It is highly motile and unicellular organism. Amoeba belongs to the kingdom protozoa. Naegleria fowleri is a brain-eating amoeba, which causes severe and deadly infection in the brain called naegleriasis.

Explanation of Solution

The infection caused by Naegleria fowleri can be prevented by the following ways:

(a) Avoid swimming in the warm freshwater areas as amoeba is found in the warm water such as freshwater lakes or rivers of the Southern United States.

(b) Always swim in water which is at normal level, because low water level ponds mainly consist of amoeba.

(c) Avoid using straight tap water for nasal rinsing.

(d) Always boil tap water for at least 3-5 minutes before using it for cleaning of nose.

Conclusion

The infections of Naegleria fowleri can be prevented by avoiding swimming in stagnant ponds and improperly maintained swimming pools as they contain this amoeba.