An 8-year-old Louisiana girl, Lillian Smart, died after what officials believe was exposure to Naegleria fowleri—often described as a “brain-eating amoeba”—during a freshwater swim, according to Opposing Views, which cites the Daily Mail.
What officials say happened
Opposing Views reports that health officials believe Lillian was exposed while swimming in Lake Claiborne. The organism can enter through the nose and travel to the brain, causing primary amebic meningoencephalitis, a condition that is typically fatal, the outlet noted.
Symptoms and diagnosis
According to Opposing Views, a fundraiser account said Lillian developed a fever, then double vision and other symptoms. The report says doctors first suspected bacterial meningitis before determining she had Naegleria fowleri. Her parents said, per the report, that the brain damage became too severe for her to survive. Opposing Views states she died Saturday, a day after her eighth birthday.
Community response
Opposing Views reports that Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry offered condolences to the family. The outlet also says Sen. John Kennedy and his wife expressed sympathy and asked others to keep the family in their prayers.
About the amoeba and precautions
Opposing Views notes that federal health officials describe infections as exceedingly rare but fast-progressing. The organism is typically found in warm freshwater such as lakes, rivers, ponds, and canals. Health experts recommend precautions when swimming in warm freshwater, including avoiding water entering the nose and using appropriate water for nasal rinsing, according to the report.
