The Don Benito Health Area has confirmed the death of a 15-year-old teenager from meningoencephalitis caused by reactivation of type 6 virus. The death occurred on March 13 at Vegas Altas hospital. Health authorities state that this variant does not require epidemiological surveillance or specific protocols.
The Don Benito Health Area in Badajoz, Extremadura, confirmed the death of Alejandro, a 15-year-old teenager, due to meningoencephalitis caused by reactivation of type 6 virus. The boy was admitted for several days at Vegas Altas hospital and died on March 13, 2026, as reported by Extremadura's Public Health on March 20. This disease variant is not subject to epidemiological surveillance or specific protocols, nor is it mandatorily reportable under the Ministry of Health's criteria. Health authorities have reiterated these points to reassure the public. Alejandro played for the cadet team of Inicia club from Villanueva de la Serena. The club shared its grief on social media: «The Inicia CD family feels orphaned and shattered by grief over his loss. In these very hard times, the entire club wants to extend its support to the family, conveying our sincerest condolences and all our affection. We join their sorrow and send them strength and encouragement to face this incomprehensible loss». This weekend, the club will observe a minute of silence during matches in his memory, and players will wear black armbands. Meningitis is an inflammation of the meninges, membranes protecting the brain and spinal cord, caused by viruses, bacteria, or other agents. Symptoms include fever, intense headache, neck stiffness, and sometimes altered consciousness.