LEXINGTON, Ky. (LEX 18) — An another case of pertussis has been reported at Frederick Douglass High School, according to school officials.
It's the first case of 2020. Pertussis is more commonly known as whooping cough. The disease is spread through coughing and sneezing and its most well-known side effect is a high-pitched noise that accompanies the cough.
A letter sent to parents from the school's principal urges parents to keep children with symptoms of the illness home.
If you have not received a pertussis vaccination, talk to your medical provider. The health department has also recommended preventative antibiotics for high-risk students who may have been exposed to pertussis. This includes students who have chronic illnesses or weakened immune systems.
Here are the early symptoms of pertussis:
- Runny nose
- Sneezing
- Low grade fever
- Coughing
Lexington’s 1st case of #pertussis, or whooping cough, in 2020 has been confirmed at Frederick Douglass High School. If you have not received a pertussis vaccination, talk to your medical provider or call our clinic at 859-288-2483 to schedule an appointment. pic.twitter.com/kKAl9G5Jeo
— Lexington-Fayette County Health Department (@LFCHD) January 15, 2020
