A 12-year-old boy, Jaysen Carr, has died after contracting a rare brain-eating amoeba while swimming in Lake Murray, South Carolina. He passed away on July 18, just days after coming into contact with Naegleria fowleri, a deadly organism found in warm freshwater.

According to the CDC, Naegleria fowleri infects the brain by entering through the nose and destroys brain tissue. “Jaysen’s family is grieving this unthinkable loss, but they are also grateful for the outpouring of love and support they have received,” said the family’s lawyer, Tyler Bailey. A GoFundMe for Jaysen has already raised over $47,000, describing him as “an incredible son, a devoted brother and a true friend.”

Health officials stress that such infections are extremely rare. Only 167 cases have been reported in the U.S. in the past 62 years, with just four survivors. Early symptoms include headache, fever, nausea, and vomiting. The infection progresses quickly and is almost always fatal.

Authorities urge swimmers to avoid getting water up their noses in warm lakes, ponds, or poorly maintained pools.