Case of Whooping Cough at Peters Township High School

A case of whooping cough (pertussis) was recently reported at . Principal Lori Pavlik—and school nurse Gail Kowalczyk—sent an email to parents Thursday.

The "Health Update" email noted exactly what pertussis is:

It's caused by bacteria and can begin with a mild cold, sneezing, low-grade fever and a mild cough, which progresses to an irritating cough—worsening at night. Characteristic "whooping" develops in about two weeks, Pavlik wrote.

It is spread by direct contact with airborne droplets during coughing and sneezing. It is treated with a 14-day course of antibiotics. After five days of treatment, students are no longer contagious and can return to school after checking with the school nurse.

Most children have received immunizations against pertussis, however if it has been four years since the previous immunization, the immunity could be decreased, Pavlik said.

As in any case where your child is ill, it is recommended that you seek medical attention to take the necessary precautions to protect your child and others. Click here for information on pertussis from the state Department of Health. 

Has your child been immunized? Is your child's immune system strong enough to fight away this contagious illness?