Pertussis – “Whooping Cough”

As the school year comes to an end please be aware that pertussis also known as “Whooping Cough” was diagnosed in Waynesville Elementary. The bacillus is present in the saliva/phlegm of an infected person.  People become infected through direct contact with the discharges from an infected person, usually by the airborne route.  Communicability is greatest in the early stages of Pertussis – generally the first 2 weeks.  The incubation period, which is how long it may take for a person to show symptoms after exposure, can be up to 3 weeks for Pertussis. 

Should your child develop any symptoms in the next few weeks, contact your doctor (or the health department if you do not have a doctor).  You will then be advised on further action needed, if any.

If you have further questions, please contact your primary care provider.

Jennifer Royalty

Wayne Local School Nurse