The family of a young girl who tragically passed away is speaking out to inform parents about the risks associated with tick bites, hoping that their loss can help prevent similar tragedies. Two-year-old Emily Johnson succumbed to Rocky Mountain spotted fever, an illness transmitted through tick bites, just eight days after her first symptoms appeared. Despite the immense pain of their loss, the family is determined to share Emily’s story in order to save other children’s lives. “If we can save even one child, then we will have achieved something,” says her aunt, Sarah Miller. “Emily’s mother, Lisa, is heartbroken. Raising awareness has become a form of therapy for us.”
Days after Emily’s death, blood tests confirmed she had Rocky Mountain spotted fever, though prior to that, doctors had misdiagnosed her with strep throat. Dr. David Lee, a pediatric infectious disease specialist at the University of Florida Health, explains, “About ten days after her initial illness, she began developing a fever and other symptoms.” Emily’s mother brought her to the local emergency room when she had a 103.8-degree fever. After being prescribed amoxicillin and advised to monitor her condition, Emily returned to the ER the following day when her fever reached 104 degrees.
“She was given the same treatment again and told to keep her hydrated,” Sarah recalls. Three days later, Emily’s persistent fever prompted increased concern. “We started to feel panic. The doctors had said to wait and give the antibiotics some time to work.” Tragically, during their journey to a specialized hospital, Emily lost consciousness. “She went completely limp, and my sister had to support her head,” Sarah recounts.
At the hospital, doctors switched her antibiotics, and that’s when telltale red spots began to appear on her skin, signaling Rocky Mountain spotted fever. By the time they realized the severity of her condition, it was too late. The family noted that Emily had enjoyed many outdoor activities recently, including camping, which increased her exposure to ticks. Dr. Rachel Thompson, a medical epidemiologist at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, emphasizes that the symptoms of Rocky Mountain spotted fever can be challenging to identify. “It often begins with vague signs such as high fever, headache, and sometimes gastrointestinal issues. The characteristic rash may not appear until several days later, which can lead to confusion with other viral illnesses,” she explains.
The CDC outlines key symptoms of Rocky Mountain spotted fever, which include fever, rash, headache, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, muscle pain, and loss of appetite. Early detection is crucial in preventing severe outcomes. Parents should seek immediate medical attention if their child shows these symptoms after spending time outdoors. Emily’s family is sharing their experience to help ensure that no other families endure this heartache.
For those wishing to support the family, a GoFundMe page has been set up in Emily’s memory. A celebration of life is scheduled to take place at St. Paul’s Community Church in Jacksonville, Florida.
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In summary, the heartbreaking story of Emily Johnson serves as a critical reminder of the dangers posed by tick bites. Her family’s mission to raise awareness may help prevent future tragedies. Parents are urged to be vigilant about symptoms associated with tick-borne illnesses and seek prompt medical care.