Boy, 14, dies days after catching rare infection as major warning issued
A vibrant 14-year-old boy has died just days after falling ill with a rare bacterial infection - triggering a renewed warning from medical professionals about the illness's speed and severity.
William Hand, from South Carolina, was an energetic, well-loved student who had just graduated from eighth grade at Hughes Academy of Science and Technology. But days later, the teenager's health deteriorated suddenly. On the morning of June 8, William woke up unwell, and within hours, he was gone. His father, Will Hand, wrote in a heartfelt post: "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."
Doctors later confirmed that William had contracted meningococcemia - a rare but aggressive bloodstream infection caused by the Neisseria meningitidis bacteria.
Once the infection sets in, it can overwhelm the body in a matter of hours. "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," Dr. Anna-Kathryn Burch told Fox Carolina.
The disease, though uncommon, spreads through respiratory droplets or saliva, often passed by sharing items like drinks or utensils.
Early warning signs include a sudden fever, pounding headache, vomiting, sensitivity to light, and a rash that doesn't fade when pressed. "We call it a petechial rash because it looks like broken blood vessels underneath the skin," said Burch. "It's not a typical 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."
The Department of Public Health has recorded 12 cases of meningococcal disease in the state over the past year and a half, with four proving fatal. Still, health officials say the scattered cases do not suggest an outbreak. "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," a DHEC spokesperson stated.
Vaccination remains the best form of protection, according to the Centers for Disease Control.
William is being remembered as someone who brought laughter and light to every moment. His obituary described him as "the highlight of many people's day-equal parts athlete, comedian, music lover, and loyal friend." It continued: "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.
"Will was known for his infectious smile, playful banter amongst friends, and unmatched gift for turning everyday moments into unforgettable memories. Whether it was walking to CVS or Moe's with his friends, or re-enacting WWE wrestling, he brought joy everywhere he went."
"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."
His baseball team, Greenville Little League, honoured him as "more than just a great competitor—he was a loyal friend, devoted son and brother, and a true teammate in every sense. His spirit, smile, and love for the game touched so many of us, and he will be deeply missed."
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