Latest news with #WilliamHand
Daily Mail
2 hours ago
- Health
- Daily Mail
Doctors reveal easy-to-miss signs of deadly meningitis as healthy 14-year-old dies within days of infection... and cases rise
Doctors are warning parents not to overlook the early signs of meningitis, after a fit and healthy teenage boy died just days after falling ill with the infection. William Hand, 14, from South Carolina, tragically passed away earlier this month after contracting meningococcal disease—a fast-moving form of meningitis that can enter the bloodstream and cause sepsis. The athletic teen had woken in the early hours feeling unwell, but his condition rapidly worsened. Within hours, the bacteria had overwhelmed his immune system. His father, also named William, shared a heartbreaking tribute online, posting a photo of his son in sports gear with the caption: 'This is how I will always choose to remember Will. 'Flowing hair, big smile and in sports attire. I will see you again, son.' Experts say the case is a stark reminder of how quickly meningitis can strike—and why it's vital not to dismiss a fever, headache, vomiting or sensitivity to light. Early treatment with antibiotics is crucial, but symptoms are often mistaken for flu or a stomach bug until it's too late. Here, MailOnline outlines the symptoms everyone should know... Early flu-like symptoms In England alone, there were 396 confirmed cases of invasive meningococcal disease (IMD), including 33 deaths, in 2022, the most recent year there are full records for. This number represents a near doubling compared to the 205 cases reported the previous year, which was during the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions. Pre-pandemic, in 2018-2019, there were 525 cases. These figures reveal that the highest number of cases of IMD were found among 15 to 19-year-olds and 45 to 65-year-olds. Like flu, a high fever may be the first sign—usually sudden and severe—accompanied by shivering, chills and extreme fatigue. Children and adults alike may complain of muscle aches, general malaise and feeling 'off'. In babies, the symptoms can be more vague. They may refuse feeds, become unusually irritable or lethargic, or have a weak, high-pitched cry. Parents may notice their child is difficult to wake or not responding as usual. These early signs are easy to dismiss—but in cases of meningitis or sepsis, time is everything. Classic signs of meningitis One of the hallmarks of bacterial meningitis is an intense headache, often described as worse than any previous headache. This is typically accompanied by stiffness in the neck—with the person unable to bend their head forward without pain. Bright light may become unbearable, and nausea or vomiting often follow. As inflammation around the brain and spinal cord worsens, people can become confused or drowsy. Speech may become slurred, and seizures are not uncommon. In babies, the soft spot on the top of the head—known as the fontanelle—may bulge, and they may appear stiff or, in contrast, unusually floppy. Gut symptoms that can be misleading Both flu and meningitis can also affect the stomach and digestive system, which may add to the confusion. Many patients experience nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain—symptoms that can easily be mistaken for a tummy bug. But if these signs occur alongside a fever or any of the above neurological or circulatory changes, they should raise immediate red flags. In some cases, especially among younger children, diarrhoea may also be present — making it all the more difficult to distinguish from common viral illnesses. Rapid changes in behaviour Perhaps most frightening among symptoms are the behavioural changes. In young children, this might take the form of clinginess or a refusal to be held. Older children and teenagers may become withdrawn or behave oddly. Adults can become disorientated, struggle to follow conversations, or act irrationally. Some lapse into delirium or even unconsciousness. Doctors urge families to trust their instincts. If someone seems 'not quite right'—especially in combination with other symptoms—medical attention should be sought immediately. The rash that doesn't fade Meningococcal blood poisoning, which occurs when the bacteria enter the bloodstream, can lead to one of the most well-known signs: a purplish rash that doesn't fade when pressed. At first it may look like tiny pinpricks—often on the torso, arms or legs—but can rapidly develop into larger, bruise-like blotches. Crucially, this rash is often a late sign—so waiting for it to appear can be deadly. Some patients never develop a rash at all. In others, it appears just before they become critically ill. Signs of septic shock Once the bacteria begin to circulate in the blood, they can trigger a severe inflammatory response known as septic shock. This is life-threatening and requires immediate emergency treatment. At this point, the skin may appear pale, mottled or greyish. Hands and feet may turn cold, despite a high fever. The heart begins to race and breathing becomes shallow or rapid. In severe cases, the patient may collapse and become unresponsive. Children may complain of severe limb or joint pain. Doctors often check for delayed capillary refill—when pressing the skin and releasing fails to restore colour quickly—a key indicator of shock. Don't delay seeking help Doctors agree: if you are worried, don't wait. Go straight to A&E or call 999. Do not delay because a symptom is 'mild' or 'not quite matching the textbook'. Diagnosis is confirmed with blood tests and, in suspected meningitis, a lumbar puncture to check for bacteria in the spinal fluid. Treatment is urgent and usually involves intravenous antibiotics and intensive care support. The earlier it starts, the better the outcome. Vaccines have dramatically reduced the number of cases, but no vaccine protects against all strains. Teenagers, university students, and babies are especially vulnerable—and outbreaks still occur in schools, nurseries and halls of residence. Every year in the UK, hundreds are affected. Around one in ten do not survive. Others are left with life-altering aftereffects, including limb loss, hearing damage or memory problems. Knowing the symptoms could save a life.
Scottish Sun
3 hours ago
- Health
- Scottish Sun
Boy, 14, with ‘infectious smile' dies just days after catching fast-moving illness – as doctors issue stark warning
Will's dad said his condition 'snowballed' - which is typical of the bug he caught 'DEEPLY MISSED' Boy, 14, with 'infectious smile' dies just days after catching fast-moving illness – as doctors issue stark warning Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) A TEEN boy suddenly died after waking up with symptoms of fast-moving illness. William Hand, who was only 14 years old, was 'known for his infectious smile' and 'playful banter', an obituary said. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 5 William Hand died on June 8, only 14 years old. His dad wrote: "This is how I will always choose to remember Will. Flowing hair, big smile and in sports attire. I will see you again, son." Credit: Post & Courier Obituaries 5 His family, including parents William and Megan Hand and siblings Emi Reese, 15, Logan, 12 and Rediger, eight, said he had a "big smile" Credit: Facebook His dad, also called Will Hand, wrote on Facebook: 'Today he woke us up before 5am clearly not well. Everything snowballed and God called him home.' William, of Greenville, South Carolina, died on June 8 from what was described as an "overwhelming bacteria infection', meningococcemia. Meningococcemia is rare but life-threatening. The bacteria that causes it, Neisseria meningitidis (N. meningitidis), destroys blood vessels when it gets into the blood stream. 'This keeps blood from getting to your organs and tissues, which causes symptoms like cold hands and feet, severe muscle pain and pale or discolored skin,' according to the Mayo Clinic. Serious illness caused by meningococcal bacteria is called invasive meningococcal disease. It can lead to meningitis, which is the inflammation of the brain and spinal cord, sepsis, or both (meningococcal septicemia). Will, a keen basketball player, had meningococcal septicemia, his mum Megan told Fox Carolina. His symptoms were not described. But they include a fever, vomiting, headache and a rash that may be red or purple. 'We call it a petechial rash because it looks like broken blood vessels underneath the skin,' said Dr Anna-Kathryn Burch. 'MOST TRAUMATIC DAY OF MY LIFE' My son, 18, wrote his illness off as a hangover - hours later he was dead '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.' Around one in 10 people have N. meningitidis at the back of their throat without having symptoms or being unwell. Carriers can pass it on to others by close contact, such as sneezing, coughing or kissing. According to Meningitis Research: 'Only a small fraction of people who are exposed to meningococcal bacteria become ill with meningococcal disease.' It most often strikes children and young people. Vaccinations can protect against some types of meningitis, with viral meningitis being the most common form and bacterial meningitis the rarer. Dr Burch warned of speed at which the disease can take hold in someone's body. '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 said. William - who has three siblings - Emi Reese, 15, Logan, 12 and Rediger, eight - will be remembered by his family as having 'flowing hair, big smile and in sports attire'. 5 William was a keen sportsplayer Credit: Facebook 5 He was described as the "life of the party" Credit: Facebook Know the signs of meningitis and septicaemia Meningitis is inflammation of the lining around the brain and spinal cord – the meninges. Septicaemia is blood poisoning caused by the same germs as meningitis and is life-threatening. It can occur with or without meningitis. Both meningitis and septicaemia can kill in hours, so it is critical to know the symptoms so you can act fast. Symptoms can appear in any order and not all of them show. For example, the meningitis rash does not always appear. It can be hard to tell meningitis/septicaemia apart from other common bugs. The symptoms marked with a * indicate those that are more specific to meningitis/septicaemia and are rarer with common bugs. Symptoms of both septicaemia and meningitis Fever and/or vomiting Very sleepy, vacant or difficult to wake Confused/delirious* A rash, which can be anywhere on the body* Additional symptoms of meningitis Severe headache Seizures Dislike of bright lights Stiff neck* Additional symptoms of septicaemia Breathing fast/breathlessness Pale or mottled skin Limb/muscle/joint pain, which may come with stomach pain or diarrhoea * Cold hands, feet or shivering* Source: Meningitis Research Foundation His obituary read: '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 a highlight of many people's day-equal parts athlete, comedian, music lover, and loyal friend. '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. 'Will was recognized as an 'All A's' student, a testament to his intelligence, curiosity, and occasional bursts of focus between jokes. 'Beyond the classroom and court, Will was known for his infectious smile, playful banter amongst friends, and unmatched gift for turning everyday moments into unforgettable memories.'
The Sun
3 hours ago
- Health
- The Sun
Boy, 14, with ‘infectious smile' dies just days after catching fast-moving illness – as doctors issue stark warning
A TEEN boy suddenly died after waking up with symptoms of fast-moving illness. William Hand, who was only 14 years old, was 'known for his infectious smile' and 'playful banter', an obituary said. 5 His dad, also called Will Hand, wrote on Facebook: 'Today he woke us up before 5am clearly not well. Everything snowballed and God called him home.' William, of Greenville, South Carolina, died on June 8 from what was described as an "overwhelming bacteria infection', meningococcemia. Meningococcemia is rare but life-threatening. The bacteria that causes it, Neisseria meningitidis (N. meningitidis), destroys blood vessels when it gets into the blood stream. 'This keeps blood from getting to your organs and tissues, which causes symptoms like cold hands and feet, severe muscle pain and pale or discolored skin,' according to the Mayo Clinic. Serious illness caused by meningococcal bacteria is called invasive meningococcal disease. It can lead to meningitis, which is the inflammation of the brain and spinal cord, sepsis, or both (meningococcal septicemia). Will, a keen basketball player, had meningococcal septicemia, his mum Megan told Fox Carolina. His symptoms were not described. But they include a fever, vomiting, headache and a rash that may be red or purple. 'We call it a petechial rash because it looks like broken blood vessels underneath the skin,' said Dr Anna-Kathryn Burch. 'MOST TRAUMATIC DAY OF MY LIFE' My son, 18, wrote his illness off as a hangover - hours later he was dead '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.' Around one in 10 people have N. meningitidis at the back of their throat without having symptoms or being unwell. Carriers can pass it on to others by close contact, such as sneezing, coughing or kissing. According to Meningitis Research: 'Only a small fraction of people who are exposed to meningococcal bacteria become ill with meningococcal disease. ' It most often strikes children and young people. Vaccinations can protect against some types of meningitis, with viral meningitis being the most common form and bacterial meningitis the rarer. Dr Burch warned of speed at which the disease can take hold in someone's body. '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 said. William - who has three siblings - Emi Reese, 15, Logan, 12 and Rediger, eight - will be remembered by his family as having 'flowing hair, big smile and in sports attire'. 5 5 Know the signs of meningitis and septicaemia Meningitis is inflammation of the lining around the brain and spinal cord – the meninges. Septicaemia is blood poisoning caused by the same germs as meningitis and is life-threatening. It can occur with or without meningitis. Both meningitis and septicaemia can kill in hours, so it is critical to know the symptoms so you can act fast. Symptoms can appear in any order and not all of them show. For example, the meningitis rash does not always appear. It can be hard to tell meningitis/septicaemia apart from other common bugs. The symptoms marked with a * indicate those that are more specific to meningitis/septicaemia and are rarer with common bugs. Symptoms of both septicaemia and meningitis Fever and/or vomiting Very sleepy, vacant or difficult to wake Confused/delirious* A rash, which can be anywhere on the body* Additional symptoms of meningitis Severe headache Seizures Dislike of bright lights Stiff neck* Additional symptoms of septicaemia Breathing fast/breathlessness Pale or mottled skin Limb/muscle/joint pain, which may come with stomach pain or diarrhoea * Cold hands, feet or shivering* Source: Meningitis Research Foundation His obituary read: '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 a highlight of many people's day-equal parts athlete, comedian, music lover, and loyal friend. '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. 'Will was recognized as an 'All A's' student, a testament to his intelligence, curiosity, and occasional bursts of focus between jokes. 'Beyond the classroom and court, Will was known for his infectious smile, playful banter amongst friends, and unmatched gift for turning everyday moments into unforgettable memories.'
The Irish Sun
3 hours ago
- Health
- The Irish Sun
Boy, 14, with ‘infectious smile' dies just days after catching fast-moving illness – as doctors issue stark warning
A TEEN boy suddenly died after waking up with symptoms of fast-moving illness. William Hand, who was only 14 years old, was 'known for his infectious smile' and 'playful banter', an obituary said. Advertisement 5 William Hand died on June 8, only 14 years old. His dad wrote: "This is how I will always choose to remember Will. Flowing hair, big smile and in sports attire. I will see you again, son." Credit: Post & Courier Obituaries 5 His family, including parents William and Megan Hand and siblings Emi Reese, 15, Logan, 12 and Rediger, eight, said he had a "big smile" Credit: Facebook His dad, also called Will Hand, wrote on Facebook: 'Today he woke us up before 5am clearly not well. Everything snowballed and God called him home.' William, of Greenville, Meningococcemia is rare but life-threatening. The bacteria that causes it, Neisseria meningitidis (N. meningitidis), destroys blood vessels when it gets into the blood stream. Advertisement Read more real life 'This keeps blood from getting to your organs and tissues, which causes symptoms like cold hands and feet, severe muscle pain and pale or discolored skin,' according to the Mayo Clinic. Serious illness caused by meningococcal bacteria is called invasive meningococcal disease. It can lead to meningitis, which is the inflammation of the brain and spinal cord, Will, a keen basketball player, had meningococcal septicemia, his mum Megan told Advertisement Most read in Health His symptoms were not described. But they include a fever, vomiting, headache and a rash that may be red or purple. 'We call it a petechial rash because it looks like broken blood vessels underneath the skin,' said Dr Anna-Kathryn Burch. 'MOST TRAUMATIC DAY OF MY LIFE' My son, 18, wrote his illness off as a hangover - hours later he was dead '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.' Around one in 10 people have N. meningitidis at the back of their throat without having symptoms or being unwell. Advertisement Carriers can pass it on to others by close contact, such as sneezing, coughing or kissing. According to Meningitis Research: 'Only a small fraction of people who are exposed to meningococcal bacteria It most often strikes children and young people. Vaccinations can protect against some types of meningitis, with viral meningitis being the most common form and bacterial meningitis the rarer. Advertisement Dr Burch warned of speed at which the disease can take hold in someone's body. '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 said. William - who has three siblings - Emi Reese, 15, Logan, 12 and Rediger, eight - will be remembered by his family as having 'flowing hair, big smile and in sports attire'. 5 William was a keen sportsplayer Credit: Facebook Advertisement 5 He was described as the "life of the party" Credit: Facebook Know the signs of meningitis and septicaemia Meningitis is inflammation of the lining around the brain and spinal cord – the meninges. Septicaemia is blood poisoning caused by the same germs as meningitis and is life-threatening. It can occur with or without meningitis. Both meningitis and septicaemia can kill in hours, so it is critical to know the symptoms so you can act fast. Symptoms can appear in any order and not all of them show. For example, the meningitis rash does not always appear. It can be hard to tell meningitis/septicaemia apart from other common bugs. The symptoms marked with a * indicate those that are more specific to meningitis/septicaemia and are rarer with common bugs. Symptoms of both septicaemia and meningitis Fever and/or vomiting Very sleepy, vacant or difficult to wake Confused/delirious* A rash, which can be anywhere on the body* Additional symptoms of meningitis Severe headache Seizures Dislike of bright lights Stiff neck* Additional symptoms of septicaemia Breathing fast/breathlessness Pale or mottled skin Limb/muscle/joint pain, which may come with stomach pain or diarrhoea * Cold hands, feet or shivering* Source: His 'Will was a highlight of many people's day-equal parts athlete, comedian, music lover, and loyal friend. '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. Advertisement 'Will was recognized as an 'All A's' student, a testament to his intelligence, curiosity, and occasional bursts of focus between jokes. 'Beyond the classroom and court, Will was known for his infectious smile, playful banter amongst friends, and unmatched gift for turning everyday moments into unforgettable memories.' 5
Yahoo
3 hours ago
- Health
- Yahoo
14-Year-Old Boy Dies from Rare Bacterial Infection Just Days After Showing Signs of Symptoms: ‘Brought Joy Everywhere'
A 14-year-old boy in South Carolina died within days of becoming ill with a rare bacterial infection William 'Will' Hand died on June 8 from meningococcal septicemia after the infection got into his bloodstream A doctor said the illness spreads through saliva and respiratory secretions and through sharing everyday items like beveragesA 14-year-old boy in South Carolina died of a rare infection within days of showing symptoms. William 'Will' Hand of Greenville died on Sunday, June 8, according to his online obituary and local news outlet Fox Carolina. His mother, Megan, told the outlet that Will had meningococcal septicemia, also known as meningococcemia, and that the infection got into 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 nature happen 'so quickly,' adding, 'sometimes it is very hard to save the person who is infected with the bacteria.' Dr. Burch told the outlet that the illness spreads through saliva and respiratory secretions and through sharing everyday items like beverages. Symptoms include high fever, severe headache, sensitivity to light, nausea and vomiting, per the Cleveland Clinic. It can also cause a rash that does not fade when pressed. 'We call it a petechial rash because it looks like broken blood vessels underneath the skin,' Dr. Burch said of the rash while speaking to Fox Carolina. '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 Centers for Disease Control states that meningococcal disease is 'uncommon,' though they note that early intervention with antibiotics is critical for treatment. Vaccines are the 'best protection' against the infection, per the CDC. Will is described by loved ones as having 'a joyful spirit, quick smile and magnetic energy,' per his online obituary. "His loss leaves a void that can never be filled," they added. 'Will was a highlight of many people's day — equal parts athlete, comedian, music lover, and loyal friend,' the obituary states, adding, "His teammates, coaches, and friends knew him as the life of party.' The teen was also known for 'turning everyday moments into unforgettable memories. Whether it was walking to CVS ... with his friends, or re-enacting WWE wrestling, he brought joy everywhere he went,' the obituary continued. Never miss a story — sign up for to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. Will had just completed 8th grade at Hughes Academy in Greenville. He is survived by his parents, William and Megan, as well as two sisters and a brother, per the obituary. A celebration of Will's life was held at Westminster Presbyterian Church in Greenville on Friday, June 13. In lieu of flowers, Will's parents asked that donations be sent to Prisma Health Children's Hospital, 'where the critical care team fought tenaciously to keep our son alive.' Read the original article on People
