Israeli 9-year-old battles rare brain infection after swimming near Sea of Galilee

A 9-year-old boy is in serious condition with encephalitis caused by Naegleria fowleri after swimming at Kursi Beach on the Sea of Galilee; the Health Ministry has confirmed the amoeba as the cause and says the infection is extremely rare worldwide. The boy is being treated at Rambam Medical Center, and authorities note it cannot be contracted from drinking water or from person-to-person contact. Public guidance urges avoiding water entering the nose (nose plugs recommended), not disturbing the bottom in shallow water, and seeking urgent medical care if symptoms such as fever, severe headaches, neck stiffness, confusion, or drowsiness occur after water exposure.