Naegleria fowleri outbreak in Pakistan: unveiling the crisis and path to recovery

Abstract

The outbreak of Naegleria fowleri in Pakistan presents a significant public health concern due to its high fatality rate and limited treatment options. This review explores the impact of the outbreak on communities and the challenges faced in combating the disease. It evaluates available treatment options and highlights the need for early diagnosis and intervention. The study proposes recommendations to improve public health preparedness, including public awareness campaigns, enhanced healthcare infrastructure, and robust water surveillance systems. Collaboration between research institutions and public health organizations is emphasized to develop effective outbreak response strategies.

Exploring the extrachromosomal plasmid rDNA of Naegleria fowleri AY27 genotype II: A human brain-eating amoeba via high-throughput sequencing

“…1 and 2 ). However , the previously identified CERE-rDNA from different Nagleria spp shows some variation in its size; The CERE-rDNA size is 15.79 kb in N. fowleri strain LEE MT741533.1, 15 kb in N. gruberi , 14 kb in N. lovaniensis , 15 kb in N. jamiesoni , 13.6 kb in N. australiensis and 11.8 kb in N. jadini [ 3 – 6 ]. Most of the size difference in CERE elements of different Naegleria specie is due to the variation in their non-rDNA sequence (NRS); however, their rDNA sequence have almost similar size having only minor differences in the internal transcribed spacers (ITS) [ 16 ].…”

“…During the last fifty years, several PAM cases have been recorded from different countries; the reason for this increased prevalence worldwide seems to be global warming [ 2 ]. According to a study, Pakistan had the second highest prevalence of Naegleria infections around the world [ 3 ]. Mostly, PAM cases have been associated with a recent history of warm freshwater swimming or direct contact with contaminated tap water [ 4 – 6 ].…”

Noninvasive diagnostic biomarkers, genomic profiling, and advanced microscopic imaging in the early detection and characterization of Naegleria fowleri infections leading to primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM)

“…The amoeba’s metabolism slows down during encystation, becoming nonreproductive and nonfeeding. This state of dormancy allows N. fowleri to endure adverse environmental conditions until conditions become more favorable 20 . The cysts of N. fowleri can persist in the environment for extended periods, waiting for the right conditions to return.…”

“…Additionally, using sterile water for sinus irrigation, achieved through boiling and cooling, is paramount in preventing N. fowleri introduction through this route. Lastly, public health initiatives must encompass awareness campaigns that educate the populace about N. fowleri ’s risks, symptoms, and preventive measures, alongside promoting early diagnosis through swift medical evaluation for individuals displaying symptoms indicative of PAM, including severe headache, fever, nausea, vomiting, and a stiff neck 20 . By diligently adhering to these multifaceted strategies, we can collectively strive to significantly reduce the incidence of N. fowleri transmission and safeguard public health.…”