The symptoms of an uncommon infection were only present for a few days before the death of a young kid in South Carolina who was only 14 years old.
According to his online obituary and the local news, William “Will” Hand, who resided in Greenville, passed away on April 8th. He was diagnosed with meningococcal septicemia, which is also referred to as meningococcemia, and the illness entered his system, according to his mother, Megan, who spoke to the outlet.
“Infections of this nature happen so quickly,” said Dr. Anna-Kathryn Burch, an infectious disease specialist at Prisma Health Children’s Hospital, where Will was treated. She also stated that “sometimes it is very hard to save the person who is infected with the bacteria.” Will was brought to the hospital for treatment.
A statement made by Dr. Burch to the outlet stated that the virus is transmitted through the exchange of saliva and respiratory secretions, as well as through the sharing of common things such as beverages.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, symptoms include intense headaches, high fevers, sensitivity to light, nausea, and vomiting. In addition to this, it can result in a rash that does not disappear when it is pressed.
During the course of his speech, Dr. Burch referred to the rash as a petechial rash. This is due to the fact that it seems to be broken blood vessels beneath the skin. The rash that you are experiencing is not the conventional one that you would get if you had, for example, a viral illness. It is possible to keep the rash in place by placing your finger on it and applying a lot of pressure.
Meningococcal illness is described as “uncommon” by the Centers for illness Control and Prevention (CDC), despite the fact that doctors emphasize the importance of early treatment with antibiotics. It is the “best protection” against the virus, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
According to his online obituary, Will’s loved ones have commented that he possessed “a joyful spirit, quick smile, and magnetic energy.”
“His loss leaves a void that can never be filled,” according to the group.
His teammates, coaches, and friends recognized him as the life of the party, according to the obituary, which also notes that “Will was a highlight of many people’s day — equal parts athlete, comedian, music lover, and loyal friend.”
It was also well-known that the young person had the ability to transform ordinary occurrences into unforgettable recollections. Whether it was reenacting WWE wrestling or heading to CVS with his buddies, he brought joy wherever he went,” the obituary stated. “He was a real delight to be around.”
Will had recently finished his eighth grade education at Hughes Academy, which is located near Greenville. According to the obituary, he is survived by his parents, William and Megan, as well as several other family members, including two sisters and a brother.
In Greenville, on Friday, June 13, a memorial service honoring Will’s life was conducted at Westminster Presbyterian Church.
Prisma Health Children’s Hospital, “where the critical care team fought tenaciously to keep our son alive,” is the recipient of donations that Will’s parents have requested in place of flowers.
