Scientists Warn of Rising Threat from Dangerous Amoebas Due to Climate Change
Environmental and public health researchers are raising alarms about the potential threat posed by free-living amoebae, a group of microbes found in water and soil. These organisms, while mostly harmless, include species like Naegleria fowleri, known as the brain-eating amoeba, which can cause deadly infections. The concern is heightened by climate change and aging water infrastructure, which may facilitate the spread of these amoebae. The organisms are resilient, capable of surviving high temperatures and strong disinfectants, and can even live inside water distribution systems. Additionally, amoebae can act as shelters for other harmful microbes, potentially aiding in the spread of antibiotic resistance. Researchers are calling for a coordinated One Health strategy to address these risks, emphasizing the need for better surveillance, diagnostic tools, and advanced water treatment technologies. 
