Dr. John Brownstein

“Early symptoms are going to be very similar to meningitis. Severe headache, fever, nausea, and that's followed by some stiffness in the neck, confusion, seizures. These can start a few days after exposure, but can take up to 12 days,”

Dr. John Brownstein · said date not stated · reported 2026-09-01

Dr. Brownstein described the early symptoms of Naegleria fowleri infection, which can resemble meningitis.

“You want to try to prevent any water from getting into your nose. So holding your nose when you jump in the water, a nose clip can really work,”

Dr. John Brownstein · said date not stated · reported 2026-09-01

Dr. Brownstein recommended holding one's nose or using a nose clip to prevent water from entering the nose.

“This is not about panicking when going to the lake this weekend, enjoying Labor Day. This is about knowing that there is a very rare amoeba that is out there, and if you can take these basic prevention measures, you should really have an enjoyable time.”

Dr. John Brownstein · said date not stated · reported 2026-09-01

Dr. Brownstein urged the public not to panic but to take basic prevention measures when enjoying freshwater.