Pertussis- Whooping Cough (Vaccine Preventable)

CAUSE:

Bacterial, (B. pertussis)

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS:

Early signs and symptoms are similar to those of a cold with runny nose, slight fever, sneezing and an irritating cough that becomes violent. Repeated coughing without intervening inhalation and characterized by a crowing sound or “whoop”. Bacterial disease involving the respiratory tract.

INCUBATION PERIOD:

7 to 10 days

MODE OF TRANSMISSION:

Primarily by direct contact with discharges from respiratory tract of infected persons by airborne droplets.

PREVENTIVE MEASURES:

Immunization of all children with diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus (DPT) immunization, according to the current guidelines.

PERIOD OF COMMUNICABILITY:

1 week before to 3 weeks after the cough

IMPLICATIONS FOR SCHOOL:

Exclude from school. Student must have doctor’s note to return to school. Report case to School Nurse immediately.