District notified of case of whooping cough

The Onondaga County Health Department has notified us of one case of pertussis (whooping cough) in our school community that has since been appropriately treated. Nearly all children have been vaccinated against pertussis, as recently as 6th grade. Since pertussis is easily spread by respiratory droplets for up to three weeks we would like to provide some basic information. 

Pertussis causes a dry hacking cough that can last for several weeks, even months.   It may begin like a common cold and within two week the cough becomes more severe.  Antibiotics kill the bacteria and stops the spread of pertussis. Pertussis is especially dangerous for people with chronic illnesses, immunocompromised and the very young.  If you have any concerns about your child please contact your healthcare provider.  

We are providing a link to the New York State Department of Health Pertussis Fact Sheet for additional reference:
 https://www.health.ny.gov/publications/2171.pdf.