A 14-year-old kid in South Carolina died from an uncommon infection within days of exhibiting symptoms.
William “Will” Hand of Greenville passed away on Sunday, June 8, according to his website obituary and local news outlet Fox Carolina. His mother, Megan, told the outlet that Will had meningococcal septicemia, commonly known as meningococcemia, and that the illness had entered his bloodstream.
Dr. Anna-Kathryn Burch, an infectious disease specialist at Prisma Health Children’s Hospital, where Will was treated, told Fox Carolina that infections of this sort arise “so quickly,” adding that “sometimes it is very hard to save the person who is infected with the bacteria.”
Dr. Burch informed the publication that the virus spreads through saliva and respiratory secretions, as well as the sharing of everyday goods such as beverages.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, symptoms include a high fever, severe headache, sensitivity to light, nausea, and vomiting. It can also cause a persistent rash when squeezed.
“We call it a petechial rash because it looks like broken blood vessels underneath the skin,” Dr. Burch told Fox Carolina. “It’s not the type of rash you’d expect from a viral infection. If you lay your finger on it and press it hard enough, the rash will stay there.”
Meningococcal illness is “uncommon,” according to the Centers for illness Control, but early antibiotic therapy is important. Vaccines provide the “best protection” against infection, according to the CDC.
Will’s online obituary describes him as having “a joyful spirit, quick smile, and magnetic energy,” according to close ones.
“His loss leaves a void that can never be filled,” he said.
“Will was a highlight of many people’s day — equal parts athlete, comedian, music lover, and loyal friend,” according to the funeral notice. “His teammates, coaches, and friends knew him as the life of party.”
The teen was also recognized for “transforming ordinary moments into unforgettable memories.” “Whether he was walking to CVS with his friends or re-enacting WWE wrestling, he brought joy wherever he went,” the obituary said.
Will had just finished eighth grade at Hughes Academy in Greenville. He is survived by his parents, William and Megan, as well as two sisters and a brother, according to the obituary.
Will’s life was celebrated on Friday, June 13, at Westminster Presbyterian Church in Greenville.
In lieu of flowers, Will’s parents requested that donations be made to Prisma Health Children’s Hospital, “where the critical care team fought tenaciously to keep our son alive.”
