Information about whooping cough
A case of whooping cough has been reported in one employee within the Waynesville R-VI School District. The individual will remain on leave until cleared for return by a medical professional. Parents of students who have had direct contact with the employee will be contacted.
While whooping cough is contagious, children who are up-to-date on their shots are considered to be at low risk for getting the disease.
Whooping cough, also known as pertussis as is “known for uncontrollable, violent coughing which often makes it hard to breathe,” according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
“The best way to prevent pertussis (whooping cough) among babies, children, teens, and adults is to get vaccinated. Also, keep babies and other people at high risk for pertussis complications away from infected people,” according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
In the United States, the recommended pertussis vaccine for babies and children is called DTaP. This is a combination vaccine that helps protect against three diseases: diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis. The booster, called Tdap, is for preteens, teens, and adults.
Additional information is available at the CDC’s website at https://www.cdc.gov/pertussis/
Parents who have additional questions should contact your medical professional or school nurse.
Febuary 21, 2020
