Introduction
In the summer of 2007, 6 fatal cases of infection occurred in the United States, all young males (Medscape)
Hosts
Human and animal [1]
Transmission / Exposure Route
Naegleria fowleri infects people by entering the body through the nose.[2] Person-to-person transmission is very rare.
Case Fatality Ratio
In the summer of 2007, 6 fatal cases of infection occurred in the United States, all young males[3]
Incubation Period
1-7 days[2]
Burden of Disease
The risk of Naegleria fowleri infection is very low. There have been 32 reported infections in the U.S. in the 10 years from 2001 to 2010.[2]
Duration of Infectiousness and disease
Symptomology
Latency
Asymptomatic Rates
Excretion Rates (see Exposure)
Immunity
Microbiology
A microscopic ameba (single-celled living organism) that can cause a very rare, but severe, infection of the brain. Only one species (type) of Naegleria infects people: Naegleria fowleri.[2]
