Sept. 21, 2012
One case of pertussis, also known as whooping cough, has been confirmed at Mayfield Jr./Sr. High School. The district is notifying all parents in the district of the diagnosis, and providing them with information on the symptoms of pertussis along with recommendations from the New York State Department of Health.
A child who has been around someone with pertussis may become sick with pertussis as well, especially if the child has not received all of the pertussis vaccines (DPT or DTaP). Even if a child’s shots are up to date, he or she may still be able to catch pertussis.
Parents who suspect their child has been in contact with someone with pertussis should contact their family physician. Antibiotics may prevent the child from becoming ill. If the child is already sick, giving antibiotics early can help shorten the duration of the illness and lessen the chances of the disease being spread to others.
Pertussis is a highly contagious disease that is spread through the air by cough. Pertussis begins with cold symptoms and a cough, which becomes much worse within 1-2 weeks. Symptoms usually include a long series of coughs (“coughing fits”) followed by a whooping noise. However, older children, adults and very young infants may not develop the whoop. There is generally only a slight fever. Other symptoms of pertussis include vomiting, turning blue or difficulty breathing. The cough is often worse at night and cough medicines usually do not help alleviate the cough.
The New York State Department of Health has issued the following recommendations on pertussis:
Infants under one year old—especially those under six months—are most likely to have severe symptoms if they develop pertussis. When possible, young infants should be kept away from people with a cough. Infants with any coughing illness should be seen promptly by their doctor.
Some children seven years and older have recently been given a vaccine called Tdap, which may give them additional protection.
If your child comes down with cold symptoms that include a cough, talk to your child’s doctor without delay. Tell the doctor that pertussis has been diagnosed in your child’s schoolmates.
Additional questions and concerns should be directed to the Fulton County Health Department, 736-5720. If there are any new developments in the district, parents and residents will be informed via the Mayfield district website, www.mayfieldK12.com, and School News Notifier.