UPDATE: No New Cases of Whooping Cough Reported in Smithtown Schools

No new cases of pertussis, a highly contagious bacterial infection also known as whooping cough, have been reported , according to Superintendent Edward Ehmann.

The 13 cases were confirmed in St. James Elementary School, Tackan Elementary School and Nesaquake Middle School, and the health department has advised school officials to begin infection control measures.

Representatives from the St. James Elementary School and Nesaquake Middle School health offices were unavailable Wednesday for comment. The Tackan Elementary School health department declined to comment.

At its worst, pertussis, which early on mimics cold symptoms, can cause a violent cough that can last for weeks or months.

Health officials said pertussis immunization may be only 80 percent effective and that protection from the vaccine often fades by the pre-pubescent years.

Tomarken said that adults who are in close contact with infants less than 12 months old who have not been immunized should call their doctor.

Pertussis is treated with antibiotics.