A member asked:

Can you get amoebic meningitis from the use of a humidifier?

10 doctors weighed in across 3 answers
Dr. Katharine Cox answered

Specializes in Pediatric Emergency Medicine

Have not heard of it: The cases I am aware of came from diving into or swimming in infected rivers or lakes. Many people use humidifiers and this diagnosis has never crossed my path. All the best and keep any humidifier clean on a regular, weekly basis.

Answered 11/26/2014

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Unlikely if ever: The amoeba for this disorder is vulnerable to heat or trauma.Any humidifier/vaporizer that uses a heat source would kill it.Those that use a fabric or static wick would trap it, those that use a tuning fork to generate a mist would also kill it. To get meningitis fro this organism you need to sniff the living amoeba up your nose while it is alive.I can not see it happening as you describe.

Answered 9/29/2016

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Dr. Cynthia Archer answered

Specializes in Internal Medicine

Amoebic meningitis: Naegleria fowleri has been sporadically associated with other household items like water toys but are generally not of concern unless they are outdoors and contain standing water or in contact with soil. Slip and slides, water spray guns and kid pools are the likely sources because water gets directly in the nasopharynx. The aerosol droplets from humidifiers are not similar and not a known source.

Answered 2/11/2017

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