A heartbreaking tragedy has rocked South Carolina as 12-year-old Jaysen Carr lost his life after contracting a brain-eating amoeba—Naegleria fowleri—while swimming in Lake Murray, a popular man-made lake just outside Columbia.
The incident occurred earlier this July, and Jaysen sadly passed away on July 18, just days after being exposed to the deadly microbe.
What Is Naegleria Fowleri?
Often called the brain-eating amoeba, Naegleria fowleri is a microscopic organism found in warm freshwater environments like lakes, rivers, hot springs, and even poorly maintained pools and splash pads. While incredibly rare, this amoeba can be lethal if it enters the body through the nose—typically while swimming or diving. Once inside, it travels to the brain and causes Primary Amebic Meningoencephalitis (PAM), a severe and usually fatal brain infection.
👉 Learn more about Naegleria fowleri from the CDC
A Rare But Deadly Threat
The boy was just 12-years-old when he succumbed to the brain infection (GoFundMe)
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), only 167 cases have been reported in the last 62 years in the United States. Tragically, only four people have survived. South Carolina had its first recorded case in 2016, making Jaysen’s case extremely rare but no less devastating.
Symptoms to Watch Out For
Naegleria fowleri often leads to death if inhaled (Getty Images)
The CDC warns that symptoms of PAM typically begin 1 to 9 days after exposure and include:
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- Headache
- Fever
- Nausea & vomiting
- Stiff neck
- Confusion
- Seizures
The disease progresses rapidly, with most cases resulting in death within 5 days of symptom onset.
👉 PAM Symptoms & Timeline – CDC
Community in Mourning
The Carr family, through their attorney Tyler Bailey, expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support from the community. A GoFundMe campaign has raised over $47,000 to support the family with medical and funeral expenses.
Jaysen is remembered as a “kind-hearted, bright soul who was a devoted brother and a friend to all.”
👉 Support Jaysen Carr’s family here
Staying Safe While Swimming
While this case is tragic, health officials emphasize that Naegleria fowleri infections are rare, and there’s no ongoing public health emergency. However, the following tips can reduce your risk:
- Avoid getting water up your nose during freshwater activities.
- Hold your nose shut or wear nose clips while diving or underwater swimming.
- Avoid disturbing sediment in warm freshwater areas.
Final Thoughts
Jaysen’s death is a somber reminder of the hidden risks in natural water bodies—especially during warm weather. Staying informed and taking simple precautions can go a long way in preventing rare but deadly infections like PAM.
👉 More water safety tips from the CDC
Let’s honor Jaysen by spreading awareness and ensuring safer swimming experiences for everyone.
