Recently, an individual in our College community was diagnosed with pertussis (whooping cough). Pertussis is a contagious bacterial disease that affects the respiratory tract and is treated with antibiotics to shorten the period the disease is contagious. If you have a cough that is persistent, you are encouraged to consult with your health care provider.
Below is additional information on pertussis. If you have any questions, please contact the Brown County Health Department or your physician. Thank you.
HEALTH DEPARTMENT
BROWN COUNTY
610 S BROADWAY STREET
P. O. BOX 23600
GREEN BAY WISCONSIN 54305-3600
PHONE (920) 448-6400 FAX (920)448-6449
JUDY FRIEDERICHS, R.N., B.S.N. DIRECTOR
November 10, 2011
PERTUSSIS (WHOOPING COUGH) EXPOSURE
Dear Employee/Student:
A case of pertussis (whooping cough) has been identified in an individual who was in the Math Lab on Fridays this semester. Pertussis is spread by air through direct face-to-face contact with the person who is ill. Pertussis begins with cold-like symptoms and a cough, which becomes much worse over 1-2 weeks. Symptoms usually include a long series of coughs (“coughing spasms”) followed by a whooping noise. However, older children, adults, and very young infants may not develop the whoop. There is generally no fever. People with pertussis may have a repetitive cough accompanied by gagging, vomiting, or difficulty catching breath. The cough is often worse at night and cough medicines usually do not help alleviate the cough. The disease is most serious in un-immunized infants and preschoolers. If you have preschool children at home, make sure they are up-to-date with their immunizations.
If symptoms develop suggestive of pertussis contact your physician. Stay at home – no school, work or social activities until pertussis disease has been ruled out or you have completed 5 days of antibiotic treatment.
Any questions you may have about this notice can be directed to the Brown County Health Department at 920-448-6400.
For your reference, here is a link to a Fact Sheet providing additional information regarding pertussis and its treatment.