Delaware County Second-Grader Dies From Flu Complications
BROOMALL, Pa. (CBS) -- Grief counselors will be at a Delaware County school Tuesday after a second-grader died from complications of the flu. School district officials say 7-year-old Matthew Wzorek died Sunday.
He was a student at Worrell Elementary School in Broomall.
"Matthew was known to have a happy smile and kind heart in class. He loved being with his friends and was always willing to offer assistances to his teachers and peers. To say he will be missed is an enormous understatement," the Marple Newtown School District said in a letter to parents.
In another letter to the community Monday night, district official say "the entire district should be on high alert for signs and symptoms of the flu."
"In all likelihood, all of the students in this 2nd grade classroom have been exposed to the influenza B virus," the statement reads.
They also say Matthew's teacher has the flu and will be out of school for the rest of the week.
According to the Philadelphia Department of Public Health, the flu is circulating widely in Pennsylvania and New Jersey.
Officials say there are ways you can protect yourself, like getting a flu shot.
The flu circulates until March or April every year, so there is still time to get vaccinated.
Officials are also advising you to stay away from people who may be sick and to wash your hands often with soap and warm water.
Also, avoid touching your face.
CBS3's Kimberly Davis contributed to this report.
