Western Australia's health authorities have issued a critical public health alert as summer temperatures soar, warning residents about the potentially fatal risks posed by a rare but deadly organism in untreated or poorly maintained water sources.
The Invisible Threat in Warm Water
The Department of Health is urging heightened precautions around warm, fresh water to avoid contracting amoebic meningitis, a devastating infection. The culprit is the Naegleria fowleri amoeba, a microscopic organism that thrives in warm freshwater when temperatures exceed 28 degrees Celsius.
"These organisms can occur naturally in lakes, rivers and farm dams, but may also be found in garden hoses, spas and poorly maintained swimming or wading pools during hot weather," explained WA Health executive director of environmental health, Tanya Gillett.
The key danger arises when contaminated water is forced up the nose, providing a pathway for the amoeba to travel to the brain. Once there, it causes inflammation and destruction of brain tissue, leading to the rapidly progressive and often fatal disease.
Who is Most at Risk?
While the infection is extremely rare—WA has not recorded a case since the 1980s—certain groups face higher exposure. Children and young people are more commonly affected due to vigorous water play that increases the chance of water entering the nose.
People living in rural or regional areas who rely on tank, bore, or dam water for bathing and recreation are also at elevated risk. Simple domestic setups can become hazardous in prolonged heat.
"Shallow paddling pools can also pose a risk if they are left standing in the sun for extended periods," Ms Gillett added, highlighting that the threat isn't confined to natural bodies of water.
Simple Steps for Safety
The reassuring news is that the amoeba will not survive in water that is clean and properly chlorinated. Vigilance and maintenance are the best defences.
WA Health recommends the following simple steps to drastically reduce risk:
- Run garden hoses and sprinklers until cold water flows through before allowing children to play with them.
- Take care to prevent water from being forced up the nose. Use nose clips if necessary.
- Choose swimming in well-maintained, chlorinated pools or the ocean over freshwater bodies during hot weather.
- Closely monitor and maintain correct chlorine levels in home swimming pools and spas.
- Empty, clean, and dry wading pools after each use.
- Flush out pipes that have been sitting in the sun before showering or bathing.
Recognising the symptoms early is crucial, though the disease progresses swiftly. Initial signs include headache, fever, and a stiff neck. After onset, the condition deteriorates rapidly, making prevention paramount.
With the state baking under high temperatures, the department's message is clear: treat any warm fresh water as a potential risk and prioritise water safety to ensure a healthy summer.
