Toddler dies from brain-eating amoeba after playing at Arkansas country club’s splash pad
A heartbreaking tragedy has struck a family in Arkansas as their beloved 16-month-old toddler, Michael Alexander Pollock III, passed away from a brain-eating amoeba infection. The incident occurred while the boy’s parents, Michael Jr. and Julia Pollock, were out of state, according to Arkansas Online.
The Arkansas Department of Health confirmed the cause of death in a press release, stating that the young child had contracted an infection from Naegleria fowleri, also known as the brain-eating amoeba. It is believed that the toddler was exposed to the amoeba while playing in the splash pad of a country club in Little Rock, Arkansas.
Water samples from the club were sent to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for analysis, and one sample was found to contain traces of the amoeba. As a precautionary measure, the Country Club of Little Rock has voluntarily closed its pool and splash pad. Officials have reassured the public that there is no ongoing risk.
While infections from Naegleria fowleri are rare, they are typically fatal. The Arkansas Health Department revealed that only about three cases occur each year in the United States. The CDC reports that the amoeba thrives in warm water, with temperatures up to 115°F being the most suitable. Therefore, the months of July, August, and September pose the highest risk.
Concerns have been raised regarding the potential impact of climate change on the frequency of Naegleria fowleri infections. Experts believe that rising air and water temperatures, as well as lower water levels during heatwaves, may create a more favorable environment for the amoeba to grow.
The initial symptoms of the infection typically appear five days after exposure, but they can manifest earlier. Headache, nausea, fever, and vomiting are commonly experienced. As the infection progresses, individuals may encounter confusion, stiff neck, disorientation, hallucinations, seizures, and even coma. Death can occur within one to 18 days of infection, with an average of five days.
The Pollock family expressed their devastation and shared their memories of their beloved child in an emotional obituary. In it, they described Michael as their “pride and joy” and highlighted his infectious smile and playful nature that touched the hearts of family, friends, and even strangers.
As the grieving family mourns the loss of their cherished toddler, health officials continue to emphasize the importance of taking precautions when engaging in water activities, particularly during the high-risk months. Understanding the risks and remaining vigilant can help ensure the safety of loved ones and prevent further tragedies caused by this rare but deadly amoeba.