# Amoeba Infections Cause Permanent Vision Loss

> Louisiana reports 10 Acanthamoeba infections since 2024, including 5 with permanent vision loss and 1 death.
- Title: Amoeba Infections Cause Permanent Vision Loss · Valleynewslive
- Summary: Louisiana reports 10 Acanthamoeba infections since 2024, including 5 with permanent vision loss and 1 death.
- Keywords: louisiana, acanthamoeba, contact lenses, vision loss, brain infection, sinus infection, tap water, eye infection, Valleynewslive
- Source: Valleynewslive — https://valleynewslive.com/2026/11/08/amoeba-infections-leave-5-with-permanent-vision-loss-1-dead-this-state
- Published: 2026-11-08T16:46:10.023+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: louisiana, acanthamoeba, contact lenses, vision loss, brain infection, sinus infection, tap water, eye infection, news, local
## Acanthamoeba Infections in Louisiana
Louisiana Department of Health identified 10 Acanthamoeba infections since 2024.
## One Fatal Brain Infection
One patient with a brain infection died this year.
## Eye Infections Cause Permanent Vision Loss
Seven of eight eye infections involved contact lens wearers, with five cases resulting in permanent vision loss.
## Risk Factors for Infection
Acanthamoeba lives in soil, dust, fresh and salt water, and can enter contact lenses through tap water.
## Contact Lens Safety Tips
Remove lenses before showering, swimming, or using hot tubs; wash hands thoroughly before handling lenses.
## Symptoms and Treatment
Symptoms include eye pain, redness, blurred vision, and sensitivity to light; early treatment improves outcomes.
## Tap Water Risks
Tap water can cause sinus and brain infections if used for nasal irrigation or medical devices.
## Patient Privacy and Details
Health officials protect patient privacy by not sharing locations or medical details beyond the infections.
## Key takeaway

Louisiana has 10 Acanthamoeba infections since 2024, with 5 cases causing permanent vision loss and 1 death.