Get all your news in one place.
100's of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
The Guardian - US
The Guardian - US
World
Maya Yang

North Carolina teenager dies from rare brain-eating amoeba infection

Microscopic image of Naegleria fowleri amoeba cells glowing green under fluorescent staining.
Photomicrograph depicting the characteristics associated with a case of primary amebic meningoencephalitis. Photograph: CDC/Reuters

A North Carolina teenager has died after contracting a rare and often fatal brain-eating amoeba.

The state’s health department (NCDHHS) confirmed the boy’s death on Monday, saying: “NCDHHS has been informed that the teen who developed a rare illness, caused by Naegleria fowleri died on Aug. 31, 2026. We extend our condolences to the family, friends and community impacted by this loss.”

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100's of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.