Concerns over a deadly “brain-eating” bug have led to the closure of popular swimming spots in Western Australia.
Authorities have shut down Drakesbrook Weir, south of Perth, to protect swimmers from the potential threat of Naegleria fowleri, a microscopic amoeba known to cause amoebic meningitis.
Children have been identified as particularly vulnerable to the infection. Officials have issued a strong advisory against swimming in Drakesbrook Weir until further notice.
The environmental health services team was also closely monitoring Brunswick Pool, another popular freshwater swimming spot in Western Australia, which was also closed after a routine water quality check detected the same bug.
A popular beach in Perth was also shut following the discovery of trichodesmium, yellow-brown surface scum algae that caused skin irritation.
According to scientists, rising temperatures in Australia were creating ideal conditions for harmful amoebas in freshwater pools.
WA Health Department water scientist Richard Theobold told ABC News, "As the temperatures rise, you'll find that natural water bodies will increase in temperature… so, more areas that are nice and warm and fresh, it's more likely you'll get Naegleria and Naegleria fowleri".
Theobold warned if people did not follow the “do not swim” advice, the consequences could be deadly.
"The problem is that while the actual rate is very low, the outcome is very poor, it is almost certain death. So you just don't want to have an infection at all."
SHARE ME