Two Deaths Confirmed from Neti Pots

In what has been a shocking blow to those who believe firmly in the healing power of nasal irrigation, Louisiana state officials have released a statement confirming two deaths in the state due to filling neti pots with unfiltered tap water.

The problem is the presence of an amoeba, called Naegleria fowleri, which is sometimes found in standing water and in unsterilized tap water. Although not harmful if ingested orally, when used in a neti pot the amoeba can lodge itself in the brain and cause a lethal infection.

Though the infection is quite rare, with only 32 cases reported over the past 10 years, the death rate once infected is around 95%. Most people who become infected are exposed to the amoeba while swimming in a contaminated pond or lake, however with the increased usage of neti pots the amoeba is finding a new way into the brain.

Health officials are warning neti pot users to either boil tap water prior to use, or use bottled water. In addition, users are urged to thoroughly wash and dry neti pots after each use, to prevent the growth of any harmful microorganisms.