RALEIGH, N.C. (WBTV/Gray News) – A North Carolina teen who was critically ill from an infection caused by a “brain-eating” amoeba has died.
According to the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, the illness was caused by the warm-freshwater amoeba Naegleria fowleri, an organism that thrives in warm freshwater lakes, rivers and hot springs, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes.
Last week, health officials first shared the teen’s diagnosis, reporting that the teenager was in critical condition from an infection caused by the amoeba.
The teen, who health officials said was not immediately identified to protect the family’s privacy, died on Monday.
“Our hearts go out to this teen’s family, friends, and loved ones as they navigate this difficult time,” North Carolina epidemiologist Zack Moore said. “While these infections are very rare, this is an important reminder that this amoeba is present in our state and across the U.S.”
Officials are still investigating where the teen contracted the infection.
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