Beloved Atlanta pastor dies from 'super flu' complications during Mexico trip

Beloved Atlanta pastor dies from 'super flu'

The Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus announced 61-year-old Rev. John Howren passed away on Monday from flu-related complications while visiting Mexico City.

ATLANTA - An Atlanta pastor died from flu-related complications while visiting Mexico City.

The Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus announced 61-year-old Rev. John Howren passed away on Monday.

Remembering Father John Howren

What they're saying:

According to church leaders, Howren reported having a minor cold during the first days of his trip, but his condition went downhill quickly.

"It was very, very fast and very, very deadly," said Kelly Schreckenberger, the pastoral administrator, Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus.

Howren ended up developing more symptoms and was diagnosed with the flu.

"He got sicker while he was there. A few days later it turned into pneumonia, and from there he was hospitalized."

On Monday, Schreckenberger got the heartbreaking call that the 61-year-old reverend had passed.

"It’s very hard to just wrap our heads around it because it kind of still feels like he’s on vacation, like he should be here, but he’s not, and it’s just really, really difficult."

‘Super’ flu continues in Georgia

What we know:

Howren’s death comes as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says Georgia remains in the "very high" flu category.

The Atlanta-based CDC blames a new variant that some have dubbed "the super flu."

Doctors continue to urge people to get a flu shot, stay home if they are sick and wash hands often to prevent the spread.

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• Georgia flu cases surge to highest possible level, more deaths reported
• Georgia moves into ‘very high’ flu activity category
• CDC classifies Georgia as ‘high’ for flu activity as holiday travel begins

Mass at Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus

What's next:

The basilica will hold a Mass at 7 p.m. Wednesday in honor of Rev. Howren.

They say his body will be brought back from Mexico to Georgia in about a week. Funeral plans haven’t been announced yet.