Six-year-old Josiah McIntyre died on September 8th, 2020 at Texas Children’s Hospital in Houston, Texas. Only a couple of days before he was hospitalized and a rare, brain-deteriorating microbe, Naegleria Fowleri, was the cause of his illness and untimely death. This prompted the Brazoria County Health Department to contact the City of Lake Jackson urgently in an effort to test the public water for safety.
Greg Abbott, Texas Governor, declared a disaster in Brazoria County on September 27th due to amoeba found in local water.
On September 27th, officials changed the “do not use water” order to a “boil water” notice for Brazoria County residents. Residents should also take precautions when showering and washing their hands.
Tests confirmed that the hose from Josiah McIntyre’s own home contained the amoeba, along with samples from a “splash pad” play fountain and a hydrant. It strongly advises avoiding public water spaces, particularly warm lakes, rivers, springs, and closed water parks.
The CDC has issued a statement saying that Naegleria Fowleri “typically affects people when the contaminated water enters their body through their nose.”
The microbe travels to the brain and causes a condition called amebic meningoencephalitis, a rare but highly lethal disease. Contrary to public fears, the CDC claims that swallowing water containing the deadly amoeba cannot infect people.
Watch for symptoms like headaches, vomiting, and fever, which may progress to loss of balance and hallucinations if untreated. The infection can lead to death, typically within five days. Though infections from the microbe are rare, it is most definitely fatal. Health officials recommend running bath, shower taps, and hoses for several minutes before use to ensure safety precautions.
Currently, the Texas Department of State Health Services, the CDC, and the Environmental Protection Agency are flushing and disinfecting the city’s water system by converting the disinfectant used in the distribution system from chloramine to free chlorine. This process is known as a “chlorine burn”.
Meanwhile, the family of Josiah McIntyre has created a PayPal account to gather funds in preparation for Josiah’s funeral expenses. His mother described him as “the sweetest soul,” and “the happiest boy you ever met.” My thoughts and prayers are with his family during these even harsher times.
