United States: A 14-year-old boy in South Carolina succumbed to a rare infection days after he had exhibited symptoms.
On Sunday, June 8, William Will was Hand of Greenville–as his obituary and local news site, Fox Carolina, reported.
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According to the outlet, his mother, Megan, said Will had meningococcal septicemia or meningococcemia, and the disease entered the bloodstream.
Dr. Anna-Kathryn Burch, Valley infection disease specialist at Prisma Health Children Hospital where Will was treated, told Fox Carolina that infections of this type occur so fast, and sometimes it is very difficult to rescue the person infected by the bacteria, people.com reported.
The doctor explained to the outlet that the infection is transmitted by saliva and other respiratory body fluids, as well as sharing various common things such as drinks.
14-Year-Old Boy Dies from Rare Bacterial Infection Just Days After Showing Signs of Symptoms: ‘Brought Joy Everywhere’ https://t.co/eC9o6GboUi
— People (@people) June 15, 2025
They have such symptoms as high fever, a strong headache, intolerance to light, nausea, and vomiting, according to the Cleveland Clinic.
“We call it a petechial rash because it looks like broken blood vessels underneath the skin,” according to Dr. Burch 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 expert added.
It is also able to leave a rash that fails to disappear on pressing. According to the Centers for Disease Control, meningococcal disease is described as uncommon, but they indicate prompt treatment with antibiotics is very vital, as people.com reported.
According to the CDC, the best defense against infection is vaccines.
“His loss leaves a void that can never be filled,” as per them.
“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 the party.”