No abstract

This study explored the application of ddPCR and qPCR methods in identifying Naegleria fowleri from both clinical and environmental water samples. Strong agreement between ddPCR and qPCR methods over clinical DNA samples was observed. Naegleria fowleri was present in surface water samples from Lake Pontchartrain during our study period. The ability of N. fowleri to survive in brackish water is therefore a potential risk factor for people who engage in water-related recreational activities. The ddPCR performance demonstrated in this study on clinical and environmental samples lead to greater confidence of ddPCR technology on field application.