SHERMAN, TX -- If you've decided to forgo heading up to any one of Texoma's lakes or rivers this upcoming holiday weekend, because you're afraid of a possible brain eating amoeba, health officials say there's nothing to worry about.

With Labor Day right around the corner, there's no better way to embrace the ending of summer with your family, then by stepping into a cool body of water.

However, this year many Texoman’s say they'll be keeping away.

"Flesh in your brain, brain eating, no thanks, I think I’ll just keep my kids in the sprinklers," said Oklahoma resident, Joanna McDowell.

A recent scare, perpetuated by two deaths caused by a brain eating amoeba, one in Murray County, OK last month, and another in Houston, TX this week, is what's keeping several families from frolicking in many of our Texoma lakes and rivers this year.

"There’s no telling what's in that water, because it's too dangerous," said McDowell.

However, health officials say there's no need for a panic, or reason to keep yourself away from enjoying the water.

"Although it has a high fatality rate, it is important to remember that it is rare," said Amanda Ortez, Director of Grayson County Health Department.

According to the CDC, there have only been 133 cases of people contracting the infection since 1962.

Experts say amoeba is typically found in warm stagnant water, and can only be contracted through the nasal cavity, when it travels to the brain.

They say it's best to avoid jumping into these types of water. 

"Because once you jump in, and that pressure creates the entrance of the amoeba into the passageway leading to the brain," said Ortez.

Other safety tips include wearing ear plugs, swimming goggles, and washing yourself off afterwards with soap and water.

"What you would want to do is again stay away from the stagnant bodies of water, and potentially wear a nose clip," said Ortez.

While many people will be taking extra precautionary measures when it comes to going for a swim, others say they'll continue to enjoy the water, regardless of what may be in it.

"There’s always a risk, but it's such a low risk, so why bother?" said Eric Kuykendall

Experts say what's more common than the rare brain eating amoeba are drownings and boating accidents.

They say if you do plan on going swimming, to make sure you wear your life jackets.