16-Year-Old Boy Dies A Day After Being Diagnosed With Flu; Signs And Symptoms To Look Out For

16-year-old boy dies a day after being diagnosed with flu; signs and symptoms to look out for

A 16-year-old boy died within a few days of complaining of a sore throat and cough. William was found by her mother in bed on June 14, a little after he developed flu-like symptoms. The mother, Rebecca, immediately called her GP and was told it was likely flu. She was advised to give her son plenty of fluids. Additionally, she was asked to call again three days later if the condition does not get any better.

It was in the morning hours when Rebecca went to check on her son and found him dead. While speaking to NZ Herald, she said, "We ask ourselves how what started as a sore throat, snotty nose and a cough on Tuesday [turned into him] no longer [being] with us three days later. No one understands, we don't know what happened. It feels like the worst nightmare that we cannot wake from.

She described her son as an amazing and talented boy. "We just don’t understand how this can happen to a boy who was barely ever sick and was very healthy," Rebecca added.

What is flu?

Flu, also called influenza, is an infection of the nose, throat, and lungs. It is caused by a virus. Most people with flu get better on their own. However, some often require medication.

At times, flu can have its complications and it can be deadly. Some people who are at higher risk than others include:

• Young children, especially those younger than 12 months
• People who plan on getting pregnant, are pregnant or recently gave birth during flu season
• Adults older than age 65
• People with weakened immune systems
• People with a BMI or 40 higher
• People with nervous system disorders

Symptoms of flu

Initially, flu may seem like cold with a runny nose, sneezing and sore throat. However, with time it can lead to fever. Some of the common symptoms of flu include:

• Headache
• Dry and persistent cough
• Shortness of breath
• Tiredness and weakness
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Sore throat
• Eye pain
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea

How to prevent yourself from flu?

• Balanced diet: Make sure you consume all the right nutrients. A balanced diet is essential for a healthy mind and body. Therefore, eat foods which are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. This will boost your immunity.
• Hydration: Keep yourself hydrated at all times. Drink plenty of fluids, especially water to get rid of toxins from the body.
• Sleep: Maintaining sleep hygiene is often underrated but is very essential. Ensure you get a sleep of 7-9 hours per night. This will strengthen your immune system. Lack of sleep can affect your body's ability to fight infections.
• Flu vaccine: It is advised to get an annual flu shot to reduce the risk of infection. Vaccines can help combat the current strains of flu virus.