Deadly Brain Amoeba Kills 12-Year-Old After Swim
A 12-year-old boy from South Carolina has died after contracting a rare brain infection caused by Naegleria fowleri, commonly known as the brain-eating amoeba. The infection is believed to have occurred after he went swimming in Lake Murray, a popular recreational lake in Columbia.
The boy, Jaysen Carr, was identified by his grieving family in a public statement. The tragic event has shocked the community and prompted calls for greater awareness and prevention.
Amoeba Infection Confirmed After Swim
Jaysen had gone swimming in Lake Murray, a widely visited lake known for boating, swimming, and fishing. At the time, there were no posted warnings or health advisories regarding dangerous bacteria or organisms in the water.
Days later, on July 7, Jaysen became ill and was diagnosed with a Naegleria fowleri infection, a rare but deadly organism that causes primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM), an aggressive and usually fatal brain disease.
What Is Naegleria Fowleri?
Naegleria fowleri is a microscopic amoeba found naturally in warm freshwater, including lakes, rivers, and hot springs. The organism enters the body through the nose, usually when someone is swimming or diving. From there, it travels to the brain and causes severe inflammation and destruction of brain tissue.
While exposure is relatively common, infections are extremely rare. According to CDC data, only 164 known cases have been reported in the United States between 1962 and 2023, and only four people survived.
Health Officials: Risk Remains Low
Following Jaysen’s diagnosis, the South Carolina Department of Public Health confirmed that Lake Murray was the likely source of exposure. However, they emphasised that Naegleria fowleri infections are rare, and this does not represent a broader public health emergency.
This case is the first recorded infection in South Carolina since 2016.
Climate Change May Increase Risk
Though rare, Naegleria fowleri infections may become more frequent as water temperatures rise. The amoeba thrives in warm freshwater, particularly during hot summer months.
Southern states like Texas have seen the highest number of cases, with 39 out of 164 reported nationwide.
Can This Be Prevented?
- Avoid warm freshwater when temperatures are very high
- Don’t stir up sediment in shallow, warm water
- Use nose clips or keep your nose shut while swimming
- Never let water get up your nose during water activities
- Don’t jump or dive into warm lakes or rivers
Conclusion
Though extremely rare, Naegleria fowleri poses a serious risk when it occurs. Public health agencies recommend caution when swimming in warm lakes and rivers, particularly during the peak of summer. Until more is understood about how to prevent and treat this infection, awareness and early recognition of symptoms remain the best tools for protecting public health.
Source: Inputs from various media Sources
Priya Bairagi
Reviewed by Dr Aarti Nehra (MBBS, MMST)
I’m a pharmacist with a strong background in health sciences. I hold a BSc from Delhi University and a pharmacy degree from PDM University. I write articles and daily health news while interviewing doctors to bring you the latest insights. In my free time, you’ll find me at the gym or lost in a sci-fi novel.
