A Melbourne Teenager Has Died Of Meningococcal Days After Finishing Year 12 Exams

Matthew Wilkins, an 18-year-old student, has tragically died of meningococcal less than two weeks after finishing his final school exam.

According to Nine News, Mr Wilkins, a student at Marcellin College in Bulleen, was taken to the Austin Hospital on Saturday after waking up with abdominal pain and a severe headache. It is believed the teenager was admitted to Austin Hospital at around 9am (local time) on Saturday, and passed away late that afternoon.

The teenager was diagnosed with Meningococcal meningitis. The Herald Sun reports health authorities have confirmed the death was a result of an acute bacterial infection, but it is believed to be an isolated case.

His sudden death has left friends, family, and the wider community in a state of shock.

Marcellin College principal Mark Murphy wrote an online letter to families and staff. He paid tribute to Mr Wilkins, and remembered him as a young man of “great humility who never sought the limelight for his achievements”.

“He had a smile for all those he encountered. Matthew was a very diligent student who achieved many academic awards and who always gave of his best to all aspects of his studies.”

While the school community gathered on Monday to pray for Matthew and his family, other friends took to social media to remember the teen.

“Gone but never forgotten,” one wrote.

Photo: Channel 9