Moises Ponce Mendonza died this Monday after contracting an infection caused by a bacterium known as "brain-eating." The young man contracted the bacteria in lakes and rivers, places where the organism is naturally present.
This is the second death recorded in the United States caused by this bacterium in a few weeks. About two weeks ago, an 8-year-old girl died from the same disease, also in the United States.
The bacterium in question develops in stagnant and warm waters, such as lakes, rivers, and poorly maintained swimming pools. The infection is rare, but when it occurs it can be extremely serious and rapidly fatal.
North American health authorities have been warning about the risks associated with contact with stagnant waters during the warmer months of the year, especially for children and people with weakened immune systems.
