BROWN COUNTY, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — Public health officials are notifying Brown County residents that cases of whooping cough are spreading throughout the community.
Thursday’s warning comes less than 10 days after a memo was sent to De Pere High School parents and staff members, informing them that “probable” cases of whooping cough had been identified.
Pertussis, also known as whooping cough, is a highly contagious respiratory disease that spreads from person to person through coughing, sneezing or other close contact. Infected people can spread pertussis up to three weeks after their cough begins if they are not treated with the appropriate antibiotics.
Health officials say early symptoms include a runny nose, sneezing, occasional cough and a low-grade fever. Later symptoms include:
- Fits of violent coughs that may be followed by a deep breath that make a “whoop” sound and/or make it hard to breathe
- Vomiting during or after coughing fits
- Exhaustion after coughing fits
Pertussis affects people of all ages but it can be deadly for babies less than one year old. Officials say infants are often infected by their parents, older siblings or caregivers.
If you or your child develop symptoms of pertussis, or if you’ve been exposed to someone you suspect may have pertussis, health officials say you should stay home from school, work, church and other activities. You should also contact your medical provider to ensure you receive proper treatment.
Experts say vaccination is the best way to prevent a pertussis infection. The DTaP (young children) and TDaP (teens and adults) vaccines protect against Diphtheria, Tetanus and Pertussis. To see if your child is up to date, visit the Wisconsin Immunization Registry or contact your medical provider.
If you do not have a primary care provider, call N.E.W. Community Clinic for services and assistance at (920) 437-7206 or click here.
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