UCSD Scientists Find Weapon Against Brain-Eating Amoeba

Researchers say they've identified a compound that can neutralize the infection which kills 97 percent of its victims, often within hours.

Global cases of brain-eating amoebas have been rising, although only 150 cases have ever been reported in the U.S.

Experts say it typically enters through the nose through warm spring water and can migrate to the brain where it causes irreversible damage.

The researchers are hopeful the new compound they've discovered will be effective in fighting the disease.