Big Isle boy bitten by shark is treated for infected wound

A 16-year-old Kalapana boy who survived a shark attack at Pohoiki on Hawaii island underwent a medical procedure at Hilo Medical Center on Sunday for an infection in one of his wounds.

Claire Napeahi said her son, Jimmy Ulualoha “Ulu Boy” Napeahi, had an infection in one of his 30 wounds, which “was really deep.”

Ulu Napeahi, who surfs professionally, said the doctor cut the wound and squeezed it to drain the fluid that had built up from the infection.

Napeahi said his doctor found three types of bacteria, and is being treated with antibiotics. A tube placed in the wound to allow the fluid to drain was expected to be removed today, his mother said.

Ulu Napeahi was surfing at “Dead Trees” surfing spot Aug. 18 when he was attacked by a large shark.

The Fire Department helicopter surveyed the area but could not locate the shark, official said.

His mother said he suffered wounds to his hips, buttocks, foot, calves and thighs.

She and his two sisters have remained at Hilo Medical Center to care for him.