Fast forward a few decades and all you hear is how our rivers, streams and lakes are laden with bacteria, viruses and parasites. E. coli is the most prevalent form of bacteria that breeds in water that has been contaminated with human and animal waste.
Remember going to the local swimming hole and getting cooled off on a hot summer day? The river was not ever out of the question. Sure, the bottom was all muck and the water less than clear, but the refreshing natural water was so, so wonderful.
Certain strains can cause gastroenteritis and other diseases. But because our bodies have become so weakened by antibiotics and chemical-laced foods, our bodies are more susceptible to these forms of bacteria.
By being cautious, you can still enjoy those hot summer day swims. Always wear a nose plug and take care not to swallow the water. Stay out of the water if you have a fresh cut or wound and keep your immune system healthy in order to fight off bad organisms.
It seems that everything that used to be fun is now reason for concern. New forms of bacteria, such as amoeba Naegleria fowleri caused concern because this infection has been known to kill. It enters the body through the nose and works its way to the brain. Headache, fever, seizures, stiff neck and vomiting are the most common symptoms of amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM). There is a treatment, if the infection is caught in time.