Attached is a note regarding whooping cough that was sent home with every student today. We are sending an email as well in case the note did not come home. For any questions, feel free to call the health department phone number at the bottom of the letter.
Laura J. Wright, Principal
March 14, 2014________
Dear Parents,
This letter is to inform you that there has been a confirmed case of pertussis (Whooping Cough) who may have spent some time around your child at Farr West Elementary. Pertussis is a highly contagious bacterial infection that can cause severe long lasting respiratory symptoms. Because your child may have been exposed, the health department recommends that you watch for signs and symptoms of the disease. The symptoms of pertussis usually occur in two stages. The first stage begins like a cold, with a runny nose, sneezing and possibly a low-grade fever. The second stage of pertussis includes uncontrolled coughing spells or fits, and can often result in vomiting from coughing. When a child breathes in, they may make a whooping noise. The second stage can last for 6-10 weeks. More information about pertussis is on back side of this letter.
The incubation period, the time from exposure to the onset of symptoms, for pertussis can be anywhere from 5-21 days. If your child has been exposed to pertussis, then you or your child may be at a risk of developing this illness during the next 4-20 days. If pertussis develops, you or your child could infect infants, other children, and adults who may not have adequate immunity. Infants and small children are especially at risk of this serious infection which can include hospitalization or death.
If you or your child is showing any symptoms of pertussis, please contact your physician about testing and treatment. Anyone who has symptoms of pertussis should remain home from school, childcare or other activities until having completed a five day course of antibiotics.
If you, your child, or another person in your home is less than one year of age, currently pregnant, or has a weakened immune system, please contact your physician about the possibility of a preventive treatment to help protect your family from pertussis.
The best way to prevent getting pertussis is through vaccination. Children should get four doses of DTaP, one dose at 2, 4, 6, and 15-18 months of age with a booster dose at age 4-6 years. A single dose of Tdap is given at age 11-12 years to boost protection. A booster dose of Tdap is also recommended for all adults. Parents and caregivers can help protect their very young infants by receiving a booster dose of Tdap and by minimizing close contact with persons who have cold symptoms or cough illness.
If you have any questions, please call your physician or The Weber Morgan Health Department at 801-399-7252.
Sincerely,
Laura Wright Principal
