Meningitis death student identified as father pays tribute

Sean Waters took to Facebook to describe the “heartbreak and upset” the family were going through after his “funny, sociable and kind hearted soul” son had died earlier this week.

Lewis Waters, who attended the Henley College, died in the early hours of Tuesday (May 12) after developing sepsis, caused by a meningococcal infection (meningitis).

Three cases of the infection were discovered in young people in Reading this week and the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) confirmed yesterday (Thursday, May 14) that one person had since died.

Mr Waters said: “Words simply can’t describe the heartbreak and upset we’re going through.

“The early hours of yesterday we lost our Lewis. Within a few hours of feeling a bit ill he developed sepsis and was taken from us. He fought hard and was really taken care of by the ICU team, but they just couldn’t save him.

READ MORE: Meningitis student identified as dad pays tribute

“We are absolutely devastated.

“If you didn’t know Lewis, he was a funny, sociable kind hearted soul. He liked to include everyone and took great joy in winding me and Kate up.

“He also loved his sisters, friends and family dearly.

“Life won’t be the same for many of us now that he’s gone.”

READ MORE: One dead after UK infection outbreak: All we know so far

The two other pupils are studying at Reading Blue Coat School and Highdown Secondary School and Sixth Form Centre, and are said to be receiving treatment.

A spokesperson for the Henley institution said: “Our thoughts and sincere condolences are with the student’s family and friends at this extremely difficult time.

“We are supporting those affected within our college community and are following the advice and guidance given by the UK Health Security Agency.

“Out of respect for the family, we will not be providing further details at this time.”

It is being reported that the UKHSA confirmed the strain identified in the first case is not the same as the Kent outbreak earlier this year, which killed two people.

Close contacts linked to all three people in the cases are being offered antibiotics as a precaution.

The colleges and nearby Reading University are sharing information with students and parents about the signs and symptoms of the infection.

These include vomiting, fever, aches and muscle pain which can look similar to common illnesses like colds or flu. Other symptoms include a dislike of bright lights, fits and a severe headache.

Anyone concerned about symptoms should contact their GP, call NHS 111 or 999 in an emergency.