GREEN BAY, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — Wisconsin health officials confirmed a second pediatric influenza-associated death in the state. The state did not identify the patient. However, the Howard-Suamico School District and online posts say a Bay Port High School freshman died of Influenza A complications this week.
Ava Schmidt, 14, died Wednesday “after a short series of infections,” according to her obituary, posted by a local funeral home.
The Howard-Suamico School District sent a letter home to families saying Schmidt died “due to complications caused by Influenza A.”
A GoFundMe created for the family says she died “after a very short fight with Influenza A and Strep B.”
The obituary described Schmidt and her activities:
“Ava was currently a freshman at Bay Port, where she was a hardworking straight-A student and was involved in DECA. She had a passion for dance, and her dance family at Forever Dance Studio played a big part of her life. Ava will forever be known for having a huge heart, and this was displayed in the love that she shared with others while babysitting and caring for pets. Her hobbies included shopping, painting, and spending time with her family, especially her grandparents, cousins, and sister. Ava was the best big sister ever,” the obituary states.
The school district said Schmidt is the daughter of Mike and Katerina Schmidt, and has a sister at Bay View Middle School. Katerina is a teacher at Forest Glen Elementary School. The district offered counselors and school social workers to help students and staff cope with the loss.
The GoFundMe page says the family hopes to honor her by creating scholarships.
“Mike and Katerina do not know the costs they will be facing as they were as unprepared for this as any of us would be. They hope that they can pay any expenses and still have money to establish a couple of scholarships in Ava’s name. They are overwhelmed with all of the love and support that has been shown to them and appreciate every person who has reached out or prayed for them. Any money you donate will go towards medical costs, funeral arrangements, meals and scholarships,” the GoFundMe states.
Funeral services are planned for Wednesday at St. John the Baptist Parish.
According to the state Department of Health Services, early data show this year’s flu vaccine is a match to current circulating influenza strains and will prevent or reduce symptoms of influenza infection.
“Flu cases are on the rise throughout the state, and it is important to take steps to protect ourselves and our loved ones. Flu vaccines are safe and effective, and we urge all eligible Wisconsinites to get their shot as soon as possible. It is the most powerful tool we have to prevent serious illness, hospitalization, and death during flu season,” said Chief Medical Officer and State Epidemiologist Dr. Ryan Westergaard.
Wisconsinites can find a location offering the flu vaccine by visiting vaccines.gov or calling 211 or 877-947-2211.
