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He was a young talented rugby player, a year out of secondary school and the world was his oyster.Joshua Hinaki was born in Australia on August 28, 1992. But his New Zealand family decided to come back to New Zealand to live - a reverse situation to which most New Zealand families move and stay in Australia.
He had a great reputation whilst at St Patricks College(Town) being described as a beautifully balanced runner with a rugby ball in hand. He was a starter in every game last year in a star-studded team and obviously had a great future in the game. He had a relaxed attitude, an easy-going personality and a great sense of humour.
His rector at St Patricks College described Joshua as a very likeable young man. A friend stated he couldn't think of a time when he wasn't smiling.
But Joshua won't be smiling anymore. He went to work last Monday morning, but began to feel unwell and was taken home. By the afternoon this young man was dead.
Joshua was one of five people in Wellington who had contracted the sometimes fatal meningococcal disease. It has been described as a sometimes rapid and severe disease which can take its victims by surprise - just like young Joshua Hinaki. Illnesses can progress over just a few hours.
The spate of meningococcal cases in the Wellington area were not linked to other outbreaks in Northland which had eight, two of which were fatal. It is a disease that doctors fear as well, because in the early stages it can look very similar to influenza.
The disease is caused by a bacterium called Neisseria Meningitus. Many people carry the bacteria in the back of their throats, where it lives harmlessly. While it can occur at any age it is more common in children under the age of three years. Prompt treatment with antibiotics can prevent death or disability.
It can be difficult to diagnose, but anybody with its symptoms should seek urgent treatment. Common symptoms in adults are a stiff neck,headache and sensitivity to light. Children have a more extensive range of symptoms
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http://www.meningitis.com.au/
http://www.meningococcal.org/
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2 comments:
My thoughts and prayers go out to Joshua and his family. I had a friend in grade school that died from meningitis. he died with in 5 hours of waking up with a stiff neck. He is still missed as is Joshua, I am sure. Thank you for sharing.. RIP Joshua
Such a sad and scary disease with little warning. Condolences to your friend and family.
peter
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