Shiloh
Editor, Senior Moderator
Source: http://www.waow.com/Global/story.asp?S=10397019
Whooping cough outbreak at elementary school
Posted: May 20, 2009 02:04 PM
By Ashley Gatz
AUBURNDALE (WAOW) -- 7 students have tested positive for pertussis, or whooping cough, in the Auburndale School District.
Most of the cases are at the elementary school. Another case is an 8th grader.
According to Susan Kunferman, the Director/Health Officer of Wood County's Health Department, 6 cases affect children ranging in the ages from 10 through 11 years of age.
The Health Dept. has contacted the students. They were are being encouraged to receive antibiotics to prevent them from getting sick, especially if they have been in close contact with those infected.
Kunferman says they're trying to set up an immunization clinic at the school on May 28th. The clinic will be for 5th grade students.
Tetanus, Diphtheria, and a Pertussis boosters shot will be provided.
According to www.kidshealth.org, Pertussis is an infection of the respiratory system caused by bacteria.
Signs and symptoms of whooping cough are similar to those of a common cold:
* runny nose
* sneezing
* mild cough
* low-grade fever
Then, a dry cough turns into harsh coughing spells, which can last for more than minute.
Typically, the child cannot breathe, therefore turns red in the face and may vomit.
Click here for more information.
Online Reporter: Ashley Gatz
Whooping cough outbreak at elementary school
Posted: May 20, 2009 02:04 PM
By Ashley Gatz
AUBURNDALE (WAOW) -- 7 students have tested positive for pertussis, or whooping cough, in the Auburndale School District.
Most of the cases are at the elementary school. Another case is an 8th grader.
According to Susan Kunferman, the Director/Health Officer of Wood County's Health Department, 6 cases affect children ranging in the ages from 10 through 11 years of age.
The Health Dept. has contacted the students. They were are being encouraged to receive antibiotics to prevent them from getting sick, especially if they have been in close contact with those infected.
Kunferman says they're trying to set up an immunization clinic at the school on May 28th. The clinic will be for 5th grade students.
Tetanus, Diphtheria, and a Pertussis boosters shot will be provided.
According to www.kidshealth.org, Pertussis is an infection of the respiratory system caused by bacteria.
Signs and symptoms of whooping cough are similar to those of a common cold:
* runny nose
* sneezing
* mild cough
* low-grade fever
Then, a dry cough turns into harsh coughing spells, which can last for more than minute.
Typically, the child cannot breathe, therefore turns red in the face and may vomit.
Click here for more information.
Online Reporter: Ashley Gatz