Experts believe the pneumonia-related death of 19-year-old Avery Koonce, a US Air Force Academy student, could have been prevented. She died on September 4th from a rare bacterial infection triggered by a viral lung infection. The autopsy revealed she died from sepsis, a condition treatable with antibiotics and fluids.
Forensic pathologist Dr. Michael Baden confirmed Koonce died of untreated pneumonia, as the viral infection weakened her immune system. Koonce had symptoms like a persistent cough but didn’t seek medical help in time.
A former track star, Koonce was remembered by her parents as “an incredible bright light.” Her death underscores the importance of seeking timely medical attention for worsening respiratory symptoms.
