A tragic incident involving a pediatric death from a “brain-eating amoeba” has been reported in South Carolina, as confirmed by health officials. The patient passed away after being exposed to Naegleria fowleri, a rare amoeba that causes a life-threatening brain infection known as primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM).
The exposure to the organism Naegleria fowleri likely occurred at Lake Murray in July 2025. However, it is difficult to pinpoint the exact source as this organism is naturally present in many warm water bodies such as lakes, rivers, and streams. Activities like swimming or diving in warm freshwater areas can increase the risk of exposure and infection.
Naegleria fowleri poses a risk primarily during the months when the water temperature remains above 77F, namely July, August, and September. Infection in humans is extremely rare, with this being the first case of Naegleria fowleri in South Carolina since 2016. Fortunately, there is no heightened risk to the public as this amoeba is not transmissible from person to person.
The initial symptoms of PAM typically manifest about five days after exposure and may include headaches, nausea, fever, vomiting, confusion, stiff neck, disorientation, hallucinations, seizures, and coma as the infection progresses. Death can occur between one and 18 days after infection, with an average of five days.
To prevent potentially fatal infections, South Carolina health officials emphasize the importance of understanding how and when exposure could be dangerous. It is crucial to prevent water forcefully entering the nose, as this is how infection occurs. Measures such as holding the nose shut, using nose clips, keeping the head above water, and refraining from jumping or diving into fresh water can reduce the risk of infection from Naegleria fowleri.
Treatment for a diagnosis of a brain-eating amoeba typically involves a combination of antifungal medications and antibiotics. Antifungal drug Miltefosine has shown promise in killing Naegleria fowleri in laboratory tests and has been used in treating some surviving patients. Those experiencing symptoms such as sudden headache, fever, stiff neck, or vomiting after swimming in warm freshwater should seek immediate medical attention.
Despite the high fatality rate associated with this infection, cases of Naegleria fowleri are incredibly rare. Millions of people swim every summer, but only a few become infected.
