El Futuro water feature identified as likely source of teen’s fatal brain infection

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Southpoint AccessWes Platt

A garden water feature at El Futuro in Durham was the most likely source of the amoeba that caused a teenage boy’s fatal brain infection, according to a newly released state investigation.

The interactive feature contained genetic material from Naegleria fowleri, the microscopic organism responsible for primary amebic meningoencephalitis, or PAM.

Family members told investigators that the teenager had contact with the feature Aug. 13, during the likely exposure period. That included splashing water on the face.

The teenager developed a severe headache Aug. 19, went to an emergency room Aug. 21, and was admitted to a hospital the following day as symptoms worsened. The teenager died Aug. 31.