The deaths of a mother and son in Missouri just four days apart now has experts questioning if a dangerous virus is the cause. So far physicians are clueless as to what caused the deaths of Zach Smith, 19, and his mother Rhonda Smith, 48.
On Friday, Zach was suffering from flu-like symptoms so he went to St. Joseph’s Health Center. Over a two day period Zach developed infections, his organs began to shut down and on Sunday he went into cardiac arrest and died. Doctors during the two day period diagnosed him with pneumonia and a staph infection.
“They said the explanation of death was even more to the fact they felt it was a strand of the flu from Africa,” Scott Dyer, who is a relative of Zach and Rhonda’s told KMOV.
After Zach’s death, Rhonda shared the news of his passing as well as photos of him on Facebook.
“So completely destroyed inside and out. My sweet precious son Zack lost the fight of his life this morning I am still at a loss of understanding how I walked in to the ER with him just 2 short days ago and now he is gone…I just want you back baby boy. I love you so so so much,” Rhonda posted on Sunday.
Rhonda developed an ache in her side four days later and went to Barnes St. Peters Hospital. Doctors informed her that her blood sugar was so high that she was at risk of a coma. Rhonda was not diabetic.
Rhonda began suffering respiratory symptoms like Zach had. Doctors advised the entire Smith family that they should all be checked for the flu. They also advised that they get chest x-rays in case they could had been passed the virus, reports The Daily Mail .
Rhonda’s health quickly declined and she developed problems breathing. Her heart stopped eight times and doctors were able to revive her. The next time her heart stopped, however doctors were unable to locate a pulse. She had been admitted at the hospital less than 12 hours when she died.
“My sister went to heaven early this morning and is now resting peacefully with her son and mother. I am extremely saddened by this. Having a very hard time coping with losing 2 close members of my family in less than 72hrs,” Rhonda’s sister Wanda posted to Facebook on Thursday.
Rhonda left behind three other children who are 12, 16 and 21. An autopsy will be performed on Rhonda to determine the cause of death. The Health Department stated that they hope to know more once the results are back.
“Any prayers sent our way would be more than appreciated. We are all very frightened and hurting in this tragic time,” a Smith family member said.
There has been an elevated amount of flu cases across the United States over the past 13 weeks. So far this flu season 86 children have died from the flu.
If you are experiencing flu-like symptoms many doctors are recommending you seek medical care immediately.
Photo courtesy of FOX.
Mysterious Death Of A Mother And Son Has Raised Concerns About A Deadly New Virus is an article from: The Inquisitr News
0 comments :
Post a Comment