Recently, the Texas Department of State Health Services confirmed a case of primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM) in a boy who had previously swam in a shallow, warm cove in Lake LBJ. Although the ameba that causes the disease is common, few people contract the disease.

According to the Texas Department of State Health Services, the amoeba that causes the illness is common to almost all lakes, ponds, rivers, creeks and other bodies of fresh water, and thrives when temperatures are higher. Infection is believed to occur when water containing the micro-organism is forced into the nasal passages, usually when skiing or diving or jumping into the water.

In 1980, one reported case of PAM was associated with Lake Austin. The last reported case in Texas was in 2005, and there have been 34 total reported cases in Texas since 1972, according to state officials.

LCRA reminds lake visitors that swimming in lakes, streams and other natural water bodies always carries a risk.

For more information on primary amebic meningoencephalitis and some easy-to-follow personal precautions to help reduce the risk of water-related illnesses, go to the Texas Department of State Health Services Web site.