COLUMBIA, S.C., July 25, 2025 — A Midlands family is mourning the devastating loss of their 12-year-old son, Jaysen Carr, who died last week after contracting a rare and deadly brain infection linked to the “brain-eating amoeba” Naegleria fowleri, officials confirmed.

According to Prisma Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the infection, formally known as primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM), is exceedingly rare in the United States — with fewer than 10 cases reported annually — yet almost always fatal. Officials believe Jaysen was exposed to the amoeba while swimming in Lake Murray, a popular recreation site northwest of Columbia.

Exposure and Tragedy

The infection occurs when water containing Naegleria fowleri — which thrives in warm, freshwater environments and soil — enters the body through the nose, usually during swimming or diving. From there, it travels to the brain, causing rapid and severe inflammation. Jaysen fell ill after his time in the lake and died on July 18, his family said.

“This tragedy is a grim reminder of the very rare, but serious risk of Naegleria fowleri infection, especially during the warm summer months,” said a Prisma Health spokesperson. Officials emphasized that the amoeba is not contracted by drinking water, and infections do not spread from person to person.

Health Officials Urge Caution

Local and state health authorities are urging swimmers to minimize the risk by avoiding the forceful entry of warm, freshwater into the nose — for example, by keeping the head above water or using nose clips in lakes and rivers during the heat of summer.

Naegleria fowleri infections remain extremely rare, despite the millions of recreational water visits each year. However, the fatality rate stands above 97%, and rapid onset of symptoms leaves little time for effective treatment.

“Our community is devastated, and our prayers are with the Carr family,” said a statement issued on behalf of the family. Friends and supporters have rallied to mourn the loss of the Richland One student, remembered as joyful and athletic.

Key Facts:

• The infection is almost always fatal and typically caused by the amoeba entering the nose during freshwater activities.

• Fewer than 10 cases occur annually across the U.S., according to the CDC.

• Naegleria fowleri does not exist in salt water and cannot be contracted from properly treated, chlorinated pools.

• Health officials recommend caution but stress the overall rarity of the infection.

For families concerned about water safety, officials suggest using nose clips, keeping heads above water in lakes or rivers, and avoiding disturbing sediment in shallow, warm freshwater during peak heat.

Jaysen Carr’s death marks one of the rare confirmed U.S. cases this year and serves as a somber warning as the summer recreation season continues

 

 

What signs should I watch for if I suspect a Naegleria Fowleri infection

 

If you suspect a Naegleria fowleri (brain-eating amoeba) infection, especially after recent exposure to warm freshwater (such as lakes, rivers, or poorly maintained pools), it is critical to act quickly, as the disease—primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM)—progresses rapidly and is almost always fatal without prompt treatment.

Early Signs and Symptoms (Typically begin 1–9 days after exposure)

• Severe headache

• Fever

• Nausea

• Vomiting

• Some people may notice altered sense of smell or taste as an initial sign.

Rapidly Progressing Symptoms (Later stages)

• Stiff neck

• Confusion

• Lack of attention to people and surroundings

• Loss of balance or bodily control

• Seizures

• Hallucinations

• Sensitivity to light

• Drowsiness or lethargy

• Coma in the most advanced stage.

What to Do If You Notice Symptoms

If you or someone you know suddenly develops a fever, severe headache, vomiting, or stiff neck—particularly within two weeks of swimming or diving in warm freshwater—seek emergency medical attention immediately and tell healthcare providers about the freshwater exposure.

Early detection offers the only hope for survival, though outcomes are still poor even with treatment. These symptoms may resemble bacterial or viral meningitis, so sharing the history of recent freshwater activity is crucial for diagnosis and care.

While PAM is extremely rare, vigilance can save lives.

 

How quickly do symptoms of Naegleria fowleri infection typically develop

Symptoms of a Naegleria fowleri (brain-eating amoeba) infection typically develop about 5 days after exposure, but the onset can range anywhere from 1 to 12 days after contaminated water enters the nose. Some sources note this window can extend up to 15 days in rare cases.

Once symptoms begin, the illness progresses very rapidly, often leading to severe neurological symptoms and, in most cases, death within about 5 days of symptom onset. Early detection and immediate medical attention are critical, though survival remains extremely rare.