CDC Warns Indiana Neti Pot Users of Invasive Potentially Fatal Infection
I was recently explaining to a friend how amazing the neti pot is. Little did I know, I was giving her information that could get her very sick. I'm actually surprised that I have not contracted the brain-eating amoeba.
What is a Neti Pot?
I started using a neti pot after I watched an episode with Dr. Oz demonstrating how a little teapot could clean out sinus gunk. Allergy season is just the worst for me, and when I was pregnant I couldn't take medicines to help me breathe. After I got the hang of it, the solution and water temp have to be just right, I was hooked.
What is Acanthamoeba Amebae?
Well, the medical definition 'For Dummies' of Acanthamoeba Amebaeis is basically a parasite that lives in water. If humans come in contact with the parasite, it could cause a deadly infection. You've probably heard about people getting sick with the brain-eating amoeba after swimming in a lake or the ocean. It can also contaminate our tap water-yuck! There's no way to know if you have parasites in your tap water just by looking at it.
CDC Warns Neti Pot Users Invasive Potentially Fatal Infection
According to the Centers for Disease Control most Americans believe that tap water - Straight from the sink - is safe for neti pot nasal irrigation. The actual truth is, that pouring sink water in your nose is an open invitation for the potentially fatal infection.
Read More: CDC Warns of Global Health Threat: Indiana, Kentucky & Illinois
Use Sterile Water for Safe Nasal Rinsing:
CDC recommendations for performing safe nasal rinsing include using boiled, sterile, or distilled water. If tap water is used, it should be boiled for a minimum of 1 minute and cooled before use (6). For diagnostic support and treatment recommendations, CDC offers a 24/7 Free-Living Ameba Consultation Service. Healthcare providers can call the CDC Emergency Operations Center at (770) 488–7100 for a consultation for any confirmed or suspected Acanthamoeba infection.
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