Louisiana Child Dies From Rare Brain-Eating Amoeba as FDA Clears New Alzheimer’s Blood Test
An 8-year-old Louisiana girl has died after contracting a rare infection caused by Naegleria fowleri, commonly called the “brain-eating amoeba.” The Louisiana Department of Health said the infection was likely connected to swimming in Lake Claiborne. CNN reported that the child, Lillian Smart of Ruston, died after developing the severe brain infection primary amebic meningoencephalitis. (CNN)
Naegleria fowleri lives in warm freshwater. Infection occurs when contaminated water enters the nose: not when it is swallowed: and the illness cannot spread from person to person. The CDC describes these infections as extremely rare but usually fatal. People swimming in warm freshwater can reduce risk by avoiding diving or jumping, keeping water away from the nose, wearing a nose clip and avoiding stirred-up sediment. (CDC)
The same day’s health news also brought a major development in Alzheimer’s care. The FDA cleared Roche and Eli Lilly’s Elecsys pTau217 blood test for adults 55 and older who have signs or complaints of cognitive decline. Quartz reported that the test measures phosphorylated tau 217 and may help clinicians identify Alzheimer’s-related amyloid pathology. (Quartz)
The test is not a stand-alone diagnosis. Doctors must interpret results alongside a patient’s history, symptoms and other evaluations. Still, a blood test could make assessment more accessible than procedures such as brain imaging or lumbar puncture. (Roche)
For neighbors, this is a reminder to check local water advisories, discuss swimming precautions with children and bring health questions to a qualified clinician. This Friday, use the front porch: or a phone call: to check in with someone older in your community and share reliable information. Brownstone’s Front Porch Friday is built around those everyday connections. What health information is your neighborhood sharing this week?
