KLUANG: The father of the 12-year-old boy who died of septic shock is still emotional over the sudden departure of his son.
Syahrol Azmi Mohd Hekak, 42, broke down in tears when Johor health and unity committee chairman Ling Tian Soon offered his condolences at Hospital Enche’ Besar Hajjah Khalsom in Kluang here yesterday.
Ling said the father of four was still saddened and in shock over the sudden death of his second son, Airiel Syahren, who was confirmed to have died of septic shock secondary to meningoencephalitis on Monday.
“His third son, a nine-year-old, suffered from a fever and was also admitted to the same hospital. We believe they may have infected each other because, according to their father, the siblings were very close to each other.
“The younger sibling cried too when we spoke about his deceased brother,” Ling told reporters at the hospital yesterday.
He added that the younger boy, Aidil Syahren, was in good health and could be allowed to return home soon.
On Tuesday, Ling denied that Airiel Syahren died from heatstroke, as reported by some.
He said the boy displayed symptoms such as fever, cough and cramps similar to those of a heatstroke, which led to the misunderstanding.
The boy was rushed to Hospital Enche’ Besar Hajjah Khalsom after experiencing a seizure at home last Sunday.
“He had earlier suffered from a fever the day before his death and had been coughing for about three days prior,” Ling added.
The meninges are layers of thin tissue that cover the brain, and when both the meninges and brain become inflamed or infected, the condition is called meningoencephalitis.
Airiel Syahren was laid to rest at the Kampung Bentong Islamic burial ground on Monday.
When asked how the boys contracted the disease, Ling said the state Health Department would be investigating the matter to identify the source.
“In the meantime, I urge the public not to speculate about the matter or spread false information about heatstroke, as it could cause public unrest and panic.
“There have been no reports of heatstroke in Johor so far, and the department is constantly monitoring the situation, including at schools, to keep a close watch on any spikes in illnesses among the people,” he said, advising the public to stay alert and hydrated during the hot season.
