Karachi: A 36-year-old woman from Gulshan-e-Iqbal, District East, Karachi, has died due to Naegleria fowleri, commonly known as the "brain-eating amoeba." This marks the first reported fatality from the infection in Pakistan this year.
According to hospital sources, the woman developed symptoms on February 18 and was admitted to a private hospital on February 19. Despite medical intervention, she passed away on February 23. Posthumous testing confirmed the presence of Naegleria fowleri on February 24.
Health authorities investigating the case revealed that the deceased had no history of swimming or other water-related activities. Her only known water exposure was through regular ablution (wuzu) performed at home five times a day.
The case has raised concerns about the safety of Karachi’s water supply, as Naegleria fowleri thrives in warm, poorly chlorinated water. Authorities have urged residents to take precautions, including ensuring proper chlorination of domestic water and using boiled or filtered water for nasal rinsing during ablution.
Public health officials are expected to launch an investigation into the city's water supply to prevent further cases.
