Scientists raise alarm over global spread of deadly amoebas

The global health landscape is often ruled by drug-resistant bacteria or super bugs. To one’s dismay, another deadly threat is emerging in the form of “free living amoebae.”

These organisms are microscopic in nature and thrive in soil and water, surviving disinfection processes like chlorination. Most of the species are harmless and play an important role in the natural ecosystem.

But some species can cause infections, proving to be deadly for humans. The most notorious is Naegleria fowleri, which travels through the nose to the brain, leading to nearly always fatal infections.

According to researchers what makes amoebas life-threatening are their ability to withstand harsh conditions that could kill other microorganisms as they can bear high temperatures, strong disinfectants and even reside within water distribution systems that people deem safe, as reported by corresponding author Longfei Shu of Sun Yat sen University.

Furthermore, amoebae act as "Trojan horses," protecting harmful bacteria from water treatment and potentially fostering antibiotic resistance.

As per researchers’ findings, rising temperatures and global warming are responsible for spread of amoebas as many species thrive in hotter conditions. Consequently, there is a real possibility that they can expand into new regions where they were once uncommon.

“Amoebae are not just a medical issue or an environmental issue. They sit at the intersection of both, and addressing them requires integrated solutions that protect public health at its source,” Shu said.

Researchers are calling for a "One Health" approach to improve monitoring and upgrade water infrastructure to combat this invisible threat. This approach will facilitate collaboration among experts belonging to health, water management, and environmental science.