A case of pertussis, or whooping cough, was diagnosed in a student at Jackson School in Batavia.
According to the school. the student was treated prior to the start of school and was no longer contagious while at school.
Pertussis, a contagious bacterial infection, is spread through secretions passed by close contact such as being directly coughed on or by sharing food or drink.
It initially resembles the common cold, but within about two weeks, the cough becomes more severe and is characterized by a "whoop" sound.
Infants, unvaccinated or under-vaccinated children are most at risk for developing a severe case.
If anyone in your family has a persistent cough now, or develops one within the next three weeks, that person should be evaluated by a doctor so that the appropriate tests are performed and treatment is initiated, if needed.
This is particularly important if you have an infant less than one year of age in the home as they are at highest risk.
If you have any questions, please contact Jane Balbick, Jackson Primary School Nurse, at 716-343-2480, Ext. 4001, or Nancy Haitz N.P., Director of Medical Services, at 716-343-2480, Ext. 2004.
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