PERTUSSIS
Pertussis continues to circulate in the community. Also called whooping cough, pertussis is a disease that is caused by a bacteria that attaches to the lungs. At first a person may feel like they have a cold with a runny nose, low-grade fever, and slight cough. After about a week, the person can start to have violent dry, coughing fits that can last a minute or longer. The disease can last for a long time and exacerbate into more severe illness.
The Waukesha County Public Health Division is working with school personnel to manage cases and communicate with parents regarding pertussis exposure and education. Students with a cough lasting longer than 7 days should be assessed for pertussis. The DTaP vaccination is a major defender against pertussis, and the vaccine is promoted among the school population. As part of the childhood immunization program the primary series of DTaP vaccine is given at 2, 4, and 6 months of age with the 4th dose being given at 15 – 18 months of age. The final dose is recommended before entering school, at 4 – 6 years. The Tdap vaccine is required for all kids entering 6th grade. One dose of Tdap is recommended for all adults including school personnel.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides guidance for the case management of pertussis. Prophylactic antibiotics to prevent pertussis are recommended for household contacts, individuals at highest risk of developing severe pertussis, infants, pregnant women in their 3rd trimester, and immune compromised individuals.
Pertussis Information from Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS)
Pertussis Fact Sheet:
DHS - English Version
DHS - Spanish Version
Pertussis School Template Letter (English)
Disease Specific Information Home Page
