Teen dies from ‘brain-eating amoeba’ just days after young girl succumbs to same rare infection

Moises Ponce Mendoza, a teenager from Burlington, North Carolina, died from primary amebic meningoencephalitis, marking the second fatal case of the brain‑eating amoeba Naegleria fowleri in the state within a two‑week span. The infection, which attacks the brain within days of exposure, was confirmed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, whose photomicrograph illustrated the parasite’s characteristic form. The teen’s death follows the earlier loss of a young girl to the same rare disease.

Coverage by ABC7 Los Angeles and Fox News highlighted the family's grief, with Mendoza’s mother speaking out about the tragedy. Public‑health outlets such as Central Florida Public Media warned that swimming or diving in warm freshwater bodies can expose swimmers to the parasite. The Asheville Citizen Times and local papers reported that the incident has revived concern across communities that use lakes for recreation, prompting calls for heightened awareness.

Health officials are expected to issue updated safety advisories for lakes and hot‑water sources in the region. Residents are urged to monitor local health department alerts and consider preventive measures, such as avoiding water activities when temperatures rise. Ongoing investigation into the source of both infections will shape future public‑health recommendations.