Shane McCarthy, Northeastern University Student and DJ, Dies from Bacterial Meningitis

A tragic news has shocked the Northeastern University community and the family and friends of Shane McCarthy, a 21-year-old student who died from bacterial meningitis on November 30th, 2023. McCarthy was a junior majoring in business management and a passionate DJ who loved music and art. He was also a kind and loyal friend who will be dearly missed by many.

What is bacterial meningitis and how did McCarthy get it?

Bacterial meningitis is a serious infection of the membranes (meninges) that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord. It is caused by different types of bacteria, some of which can be spread through coughing, sneezing, or sharing utensils. Bacterial meningitis can cause fever, headache, stiff neck, nausea, vomiting, confusion, sensitivity to light, and seizures. It can also lead to brain damage, hearing loss, learning disabilities, or death if not treated promptly with antibiotics.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the most common bacteria that cause bacterial meningitis in the United States are Streptococcus pneumoniae, Neisseria meningitidis, Haemophilus influenzae, and Listeria monocytogenes. The exact cause of McCarthy’s infection is not yet known, but it is possible that he contracted it from someone who was carrying the bacteria without showing any symptoms. The CDC recommends that people who have close contact with someone who has bacterial meningitis should receive preventive antibiotics and vaccination if needed.

How did Northeastern University respond to Shane McCarthy’s death?

Northeastern University issued a statement expressing its condolences to Shane McCarthy’s family and friends and offering support and counseling services to anyone affected by his death. The university also informed the students, faculty, and staff about the signs and symptoms of bacterial meningitis and the preventive measures they can take to protect themselves and others. The university said it is working closely with the Boston Public Health Commission and the Massachusetts Department of Public Health to identify and treat any potential contacts of McCarthy and to prevent any further cases of the infection.

The university also honored McCarthy’s memory by hosting a virtual vigil on December 2nd, 2023, where his family, friends, professors, and classmates shared their stories and tributes to him. Many of them described him as a talented, creative, and generous person who had a bright future ahead of him. They also played some of his favorite songs and artworks that he had created as a DJ and an artist.

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What can you do to prevent bacterial meningitis and support McCarthy’s family?

Bacterial meningitis is a rare but serious disease that can be prevented by following some simple steps. The CDC advises that you should:

• Get vaccinated against the bacteria that can cause meningitis. There are vaccines available for S. pneumoniae, N. meningitidis, and H. influenzae. Talk to your doctor about which vaccines you need and when you should get them.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. This can help prevent the spread of germs that can cause meningitis and other infections.
• Avoid sharing personal items that may have saliva on them, such as cups, bottles, utensils, lip balm, or toothbrushes. This can reduce the risk of getting or passing on the bacteria that can cause meningitis.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your elbow when you cough or sneeze. This can help prevent the spread of respiratory droplets that may contain the bacteria that can cause meningitis.
• Stay healthy by eating well, exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, and managing stress. This can help boost your immune system and fight off infections.

If you want to support McCarthy’s family and honor his legacy, you can also:

• Donate to the Shane McCarthy Memorial Fund, which was set up by his family to help cover his funeral expenses and to support his younger sister’s education. You can find the link to the fund on his obituary page.
• Send a card, a letter, or a message of sympathy and condolence to his family. You can find their address and contact information on his obituary page.
• Share your memories and photos of McCarthy on his online tribute wall. You can also light a candle or leave a flower for him on his obituary page.
• Listen to his music and appreciate his art. You can find some of his DJ mixes and artworks on his Instagram account and his SoundCloud account.

Bacterial meningitis is a serious disease that can take a life in a matter of hours. Shane McCarthy was a young man who had a lot to offer to the world and who touched many lives with his music and his kindness. His death is a tragic loss for his family, his friends, and his university. Let us remember him and honor him by taking care of ourselves and each other, and by following his example of living with passion and generosity.