Teen dies aged 14 just days after contracting infection as doctor issue urgent warning

A teenager had died just days after contracting a rare bacterial infection.

William Hand, 14, unexpectedly passed away on June 8, leaving his family and friends devastated.

William, who went by Will to those who knew him well, had just graduated 8th grade. He had studied at Hughes Academy of Science and Technology.

A lover of sport and music, the late 14-year-old has been described as 'the life of party-always ready with a story, usually a little embellished for effect, and always delivered with a grin', per his tear-jerking obituary.

"Beyond the classroom and [basketball] court, Will was known for his infectious smile, playful banter amongst friends, and unmatched gift for turning everyday moments into unforgettable memories," it went on. "Whether it was walking to CVS or Moe's with his friends, or re-enacting WWE wrestling, he brought joy everywhere he went."

In the days leading up to his untimely passing, William contracted meningococcal septicemia — also known as Meningococcemia.

Cleveland Clinic describes this as: "A rare but serious bacterial infection in your blood. It causes severe symptoms that get worse fast, including muscle pain, cold hands and feet, lethargy, chills, fever, a rash and more."

People who believe they may have the infection are urged to go to the emergency room immediately.

This illness is caused by bacteria Neisseria meningitidis, Fox News reports. According to William's mom Megan, this bacteria got into the teenager's bloodstream and he died shortly after.

It's reported that there's been 12 cases of Neisseria meningitidis in South Carolina in the last 18 months.

With this and William's death in mind, a doctor Prisma Health Pediatric Infectious Disease, Dr. Anna-Kathryn Burch, warned that it can be 'very hard to save the person' if they contract the bacteria in question.

William Hand was just 14 years old at the time of his death (Fox Carolina News)

"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," she told Fox.

The infection is said to be passed on through saliva and respiratory secretions.

Symptoms include high fever, severe headache, sensitivity to light, nausea, or vomiting.

Those with the illness may also develop a rash, known as a petechial rash.

"We call it a petechial rash because it looks like broken blood vessels underneath the skin," explained Dr. Burch. "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."

If you have experienced a bereavement and would like to speak with someone in confidence, contact The Compassionate Friends on (877) 969-0010.

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