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A South Carolina child died from a brain-eating amoeba, Naegleria fowleri, contracted at Lake Murray. While rare, with fewer than 10 US cases annually, the infection is usually fatal. The amoeba thrives in warm freshwater; prevention includes avoiding water entering the nose during water activities, using nose clips, and not using untreated tap water for nasal irrigation. Symptoms include severe headache, fever, and stiff neck. While the risk is low, parents should weigh risks and take precautions when swimming in freshwater.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.