WASHINGTON COUNTY, Pa. — A third-grader at Trinity South Elementary School in Washington has died, according to a letter from the Trinity Area School District.
Payton Pierson, 10, was taken to Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh earlier this week and died from complications from the flu, the girl’s aunt told Channel 11 News on Friday. The aunt said Payton was in a coma and on life support but never woke up.
The letter that was sent to parents and guardians stated that crisis counselors will be available for students and staff.
“Unfortunately, folks can die from the flu despite having no pre-existing medical problems and despite the best modern medicine has to offer,” said Dr. Charles Feronti, an emergency medical physician at Allegheny General Hospital.
Feronti didn't work on Payton's case, but he said doctors have seen flu cases later than usual this year.
“We've gone in streaks: see an uptick then slowdowns,” he said.
Allegheny County has had at least 2,580 flu cases reported during this season, Westmoreland County has reported 762 and Washington County has reported 787. Nationally, 43 states have reported widespread flu activity and at least 20 children have died from the virus.
Cox Media Group
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