A 14-year-old boy from South Carolina has died just days after contracting a rare bacterial infection, Meningococcemia. William Hand, an eighth-grader, passed away on June 8 after catching the fast-moving illness. The disease is caused by Neisseria meningitidis bacteria that entered his bloodstream. According to Dr. Anna-Kathryn Burch, symptoms include high fever, severe headache, sensitivity to light, nausea, and vomiting, as well as a rash that does not fade when pressed.
The disease is spread through saliva or respiratory secretions and can be transferred from person to person through close contact or sharing items such as drinks or utensils. In South Carolina, there have been 12 reported cases of the illness in the past year, with four resulting in death. The Centers for Disease Control recommend vaccination as the most effective preventative action against Meningococcemia.
Hand’s family has asked for donations to be made to the team that cared for him at Prisma Health Children’s hospital. He was remembered by his friends and teammates as a loyal companion, devoted son, and brother who brought joy to those around him. The tragedy serves as a reminder of the importance of vaccination and being aware of the symptoms of this rare but potentially life-threatening disease.
Source: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-14815195/William-Hand-Meningococcemia-warning.html