Two deaths from brain-eating amoeba linked to sinus remedy for colds

[Geee]

Daily Mail:

A sinus-flushing device used to relieve colds and allergies has been linked to a deadly brain-eating amoeba.

Louisiana's state health department issued a warning about neti pots - which look like mini watering cans, that are used by pouring salty water through one nostril.

It follows two recent deaths - a 51-year-old woman and a 20-year-old man from the 'brain-eating amoeba' Naegleria fowleri.

It is thought the amoeba entered their brains when they used the devices.

Both victims are thought to have used tap water, instead of distilled or sterilised water as recommended by the manufacturers.

Dr Raoult Ratard, Louisiana State Epidemiologist, said: 'If you are irrigating, flushing, or rinsing your sinuses, for example, by using a neti pot, use distilled, sterile or previously boiled water to make up the irrigation solution.

'Tap water is safe for drinking, but not for irrigating your nose.'

He added that it is important to rinse the irrigation device after each use and leave open to air dry.

[saveliberty]

Wow

[Geee]

Caught my attention cause son #2 uses a neti pot for his sinuses!

[righteousmomma]

It is thought the amoeba entered their brains when they used the devices.

 

Both victims are thought to have used tap water, instead of distilled or sterilised water as recommended by the manufacturers.

 

Good reminder for us all - there is reason for instruction to "boil" and "sterilize".

 

Very sad and scary.

[Evad]

I'm very careful about what I stick up my nose...and other places too for that matter.

It always amazes me when I walk into my favorite Wakmart and there's the station for "FLU SHOTS".

Like I'm going to let someone from a Walmart store INJECT me with a virus.

Nope, won't happen.

[pollyannaish]

For me, one more example of The romantization of peasant life. It is so easy for us to forget the danger that lurks in a world we are so removed from.Sterile takes work.

[Valin]

 

 

Dr Raoult Ratard, Louisiana State Epidemiologist, said: 'If you are irrigating, flushing, or rinsing your sinuses, for example, by using a neti pot, use distilled, sterile or previously boiled water to make up the irrigation solution.

 

'Tap water is safe for drinking, but not for irrigating your nose.'

 

He added that it is important to rinse the irrigation device after each use and leave open to air dry.

 

 

It is amazing that people have to be reminded of this.

 

The Moron Chip Theory:

Deep within the brain of most humans, resides the Moron chip. This chip, when working properly, is constantly observing the person's behavior. In the event of dangerous or stupid behavior, it will go into alarm mode. Historically, this chip may be what helped the smarter cavemen to not become "food" or "stuff on a rock".