8-Year-Old Louisiana Girl Dies After Brain-Eating Amoeba Infection

RUSTON, La. - An 8-year-old Ruston girl has died after contracting a rare and often fatal brain infection caused by Naegleria fowleri, a microscopic amoeba commonly known as the “brain-eating amoeba.”

Ruston Girl Develops Rare Brain Infection

Lillian Smart became ill last week after a family outing that included swimming in Lake Claiborne, about 30 miles northwest of Ruston. The Louisiana Department of Health announced last week that a Louisiana resident had likely contracted Naegleria fowleri after swimming in the lake, although health officials did not identify the person. Lillian’s family and friends later identified her as the infected resident.

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According to updates from Lillian’s mother, Rebecca Smart, the girl initially developed a fever and severe fatigue. After testing negative for COVID-19, influenza and strep throat, Lillian later complained of double vision. Her mother noticed that her pupils were different sizes and immediately took her to Willis-Knighton South Hospital in Shreveport.

Lillian's Condition Quickly Worsened

Doctors initially diagnosed bacterial meningitis but later determined Lillian had Naegleria fowleri. She was transferred to intensive care as doctors worked to control severe brain swelling and other complications caused by the infection.

Ruston Community Rallies Around Lillian's Family

The Ruston community rallied around Lillian and her family, including an all-day prayer vigil at First Baptist Ruston and fundraisers organized by local businesses around her birthday. Her family said doctors saw brief signs of neurological response, including small movements in her arms and legs, but the brain swelling ultimately proved too severe.

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Lillian’s parents announced her death in a Facebook post Sunday.

“Last night Lillian ran from our arms to the arms of Jesus,” the family wrote. “The injuries to her brain were too severe for her little body to recover from.”

What Is Naegleria Fowleri?

The Louisiana Department of Health said only three Naegleria fowleri cases had been reported in the state between 1937 and 2025. Nationwide, just 180 confirmed cases were reported during that same period.

How to Reduce Your Risk

The amoeba lives in warm freshwater and can enter the body through the nose before traveling to the brain. It cannot cause infection when swallowed and does not spread from person to person. Health officials recommend avoiding forcing warm freshwater up the nose and using nose clips when swimming in areas where the amoeba may be present.

Lillian is survived by her parents and brothers.