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Child dies from brain-eating amoeba in South Carolina

A child has died after contracting Naegleria fowleri earlier this month, confirmed by health officials.

July 23, 2025 at 05:56 PM
blur Child dies after contracting brain-eating amoeba, hospital says

A tragic case of Naegleria fowleri highlights ongoing public health concerns.

Child dies from brain-eating amoeba in South Carolina

COLUMBIA, S.C. — Health officials have confirmed the death of a child from a brain-eating amoeba in South Carolina. This case involved Naegleria fowleri, which was reported during the week of July 7. The patient, treated at Prisma Health Children’s Hospital, had contracted the amoeba, known for infecting the brain and destroying tissue. According to the CDC, there have been only 167 cases reported in the U.S. since 1962, with a survival rate of around 2.4%.

Key Takeaways

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The child was treated at Prisma Health Children’s Hospital.
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Naegleria fowleri thrives in warm freshwater.
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Historically, fewer than 10 yearly infections occur in the U.S.
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CDC confirms 167 cases since 1962, with only four survivors.
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The amoeba infects and destroys brain tissue effectively.
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Public awareness about water safety remains critically low.

"Naegleria fowleri thrives in warm bodies of fresh water."

This highlights the environmental conditions where these amoebas can be found, emphasizing the need for caution during summer.

"Historically, there have been 167 cases since 1962, with only four survivors."

This statistic underlines the severe risk posed by this amoeba, despite its rarity.

The death of a child from Naegleria fowleri brings attention to the dangers posed by warm freshwater environments, where this amoeba typically resides. As reported cases remain rare, the implications of such tragedies can escalate public anxiety over water safety, especially during the summer months when outdoor activities increase. Understanding and educating communities about preventive measures is essential to prevent further incidents.

Highlights

  • Tragic reminder of the dangers in warm freshwater.
  • Rare, but deadly: Naegleria fowleri strikes again.
  • Every summer brings new risks in freshwater bodies.
  • Public awareness about this amoeba is sadly low.

Tragic child death raises public health concerns

The child’s death from a rare but lethal amoeba poses risks for public safety, particularly during warm weather. Community awareness about the dangers of warm freshwater is critical to prevent future tragedies.

Public health officials must intensify education about water safety to prevent future tragedies.

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