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May 4, 2012
Dear Parent/Guardian: A Zillah High School student has been diagnosed with Whooping Cough (also known as Pertussis). The ill person is currently receiving treatment. We have consulted with the Yakima Health District and are providing you with this important information about Whooping Cough (Pertussis). Symptoms Whooping Cough (Pertussis) is a contagious disease affecting both children and adults. Symptoms usually begin between 7 to 21 days from exposure with cold-like symptoms of sneezing and a runny nose followed by a persistent cough. As the cough progresses, it may occur in explosive bursts or fits which can be followed by gagging or vomiting, and may end with a high pitched whoop. These coughing fits can make it hard to eat, drink or breathe. Between coughing episodes, children and adults may appear well. There is usually little or no fever with this illness. Coughing attacks can continue for 6 to 8 weeks or longer. How It Is Spread Whooping Cough (Pertussis) is spread by direct contact with respiratory secretions (from nose and throat) or by handling articles directly contaminated by those secretions. It could take up to three weeks from the time of exposure to Whooping Cough (Pertussis) before symptoms may develop. Prevention Following proper respiratory hygiene can help prevent the spread of many germs, including Whooping Cough (Pertussis). It is very important to: ¨Cover your mouth and nose when you are coughing, sneezing or blowing your nose. Cough or sneeze into your elbow to prevent contaminating your hands but if this is not an option, cough or sneeze into a tissue and then throw the tissue away. ¨Clean your hands often with warm water and soap for 15 to 20 seconds or use alcohol-based hand cleaners. ¨Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. ¨Avoid close contact with persons who are sick. Whooping Cough Immunizations (Shots) Whooping Cough (Pertussis) Vaccine (DTaP/DTP) is given to children up to the 7th birthday. It is important that young children receive these shots starting at 2 months of age because they are at the greatest risk of developing severe symptoms and complications from the illness. Children and adults sometimes catch Whooping Cough (Pertussis) even if they have had all their immunizations (DTP or DTaP) against this disease. In 2005, new Pertussis containing vaccines [Tdap] were licensed for persons aged 10 years to 64 years of age. The vaccine has now been recommended for all adults of any age and children. They only need to have a one-time dose of Tdap. Also, Tdap may be administered regardless of the interval since the administration of last tetanus or diphtheria containing vaccine. What to Do Children and adults who develop or have persistent coughs should see their family doctor or regular source of medical care taking this letter with them at the time of the visit. For more information about Whooping Cough (Pertussis), you may call the Yakima Health District at 249-6541.
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The mission of the Zillah School District is to provide students with high quality educational opportunities that will allow them to successfully graduate from high school and prepare them for their future. |
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Our Zillah Community
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The Zillah School District No. 205 complies with all federal rules and regulations and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex or handicap. This holds true for all district employment and opportunities. Inquires regarding compliance procedures may be directed to the Title IX Officer and Section 504 Coordinator, Mr. Kevin McKay. Supt., 213 Fourth Avenue, Zillah, WA 98953. (509) 829-5943.
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