A teenager in South Carolina has died just days after contracting a rare bacterial infection, with doctors issuing a warning over symptoms of the bacteria.
He passed away on June 8
William Hand, who was 14 years old, tragically passed away on June 8 after catching a rare blood infection known as Meningococcemia only a few days after catching the bacteria.
The 8th grade graduate’s father wrote on Facebook that the boy had woken up before 5am ‘clearly not well’.
The loving father remembered his son
In the heartwrenching post, the teenager’s father wrote, “Everything snowballed and God called him home.”
“This is how I will always choose to remember Will. Flowing hair, big smile and in sports attire. I will see you again, son.”
What is Meningococcemia?
Meningococcemia, or meningococcal septicemia, is a rare bloodstream infection caused by Neisseria meningitidis bacteria, which had entered Hand’s body.
It’s spread through saliva or respiratory secretions, and can be transferred between people through close contact or sharing things like drinks or food utensils.
A doctor explained it’s a fast-moving illness
Speaking about the illness, Dr. Anna-Kathryn Burch told Fox Carolina, “The infection happens so quickly, and once it starts going, sometimes it is very hard to save the person who is infected with the bacteria.”
The doctor explained the symptoms
Symptoms to look out for include high fever, severe headache, sensitivity to light, nausea or vomiting. The disease can also cause a rash that does not fade away when pressed.
Dr Burch stressed that while the disease is aggressive, it’s uncommon and not always fatal.
A rash could come up as one of the symptom
Burch told the outlet, “We call it a petechial rash because it looks like broken blood vessels underneath the skin.”
“It’s not a typically rash that you would get with let’s say, a viral infection. If you put your finger on it and press down really hard, the rash will stay there.”
Vaccination is the best way to avoid it
The Department of Public Health said that in South Carolina, 12 cases of the illness have been reported in the past year and a half, four of which resulted in death.
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A spokesperson for DHEC said, “DPH investigates all reported cases of Neisseria meningitidis, looking for possible links. In regards to the 12 cases spread across the state within 18 months, no links were found and this does not fit the definition of an outbreak.”
According to The Centers for Disease Control, the most effective preventative action against Meningococcemia is vaccination.
Hand is remembered for his high energy and smile
The boy’s obituary said, “His loss leaves a void that can never be filled, but his joyful spirit, quick smile, and magnetic energy will live on in the hearts of all who knew him, even briefly.”
“His teammates, coaches, and friends knew him as the life of party-always ready with a story, usually a little embellished for effect, and always delivered with a grin.”
