“The amoeba does not cause illness if swallowed but can be fatal if water with the amoeba in it is forced up the nose into the brain, which can occur by jumping into water, diving, water-skiing or other water activities,”

North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services · said date not stated · reported 2026-09-01

NCDHHS explained how the amoeba can be fatal if contaminated water is forced up the nose into the brain.