Schools

Whooping Cough Case at Northport High School

A instance of Pertussis, a highly contagious respiratory illness, was discovered.

A case of Pertussis, also known as "whooping cough," was reported by the Suffolk County Department of Health Monday.

Instances of the highly contagious respiratory illness have spiked this season in Suffolk County, according to a statement by Suffolk County Health Department's Dr. Shaheda Iftikar. The illness is spread through the air, often through coughing by an individual with the infection, Iftikar said.

Pertussis gets its nickname for causing individuals to experience uncontrollable coughing which often makes it hard to breathe, resulting in a whooping sound while gasping for air.

Symptoms of the illness usually develop within 10 days after being exposed, but sometimes not for as long as 6 weeks, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

There are three stages of Pertussis:
Stage one: mild cough that lasts for one or two weeks.
Stage two: spasmodic coughing followed by long whooping sounds that can last for six weeks.
Stage three: coughing episodes may last for up to 100 days, however, the infection is no longer contagious.

Adults and children with up-to-date vaccinations may still be at risk of contracting Pertussis since immunity wanes over years, however, vaccinations are the best defense against the illness are still most effective in preventing it, the commissioner said.

Parents who believe their child may be infected should contact their doctor for early treatment with an appropriate antibiotic, Iftikar said.



Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here