Pertussis (Whooping Cough)

Fever, itchy rash, red spots that become fluid filled and then crust over in a few days, feeling tired, a cough that is often high pitched with a “whoop” sound and runny nose.
This disease is spread through direct contact with saliva or respiratory droplets of an infected person. These droplets can be released into the air by talking, coughing or sneezing Pertussis can be spread 1-2 weeks before the cough begins and up to 5 days after the antibiotics are started, or for 3 weeks without.
To reduce the risk of transmission, practice proper hand hygiene, good surface cleaning, sanitize objects that may be put in a child’s mouth, ensure fresh air ventilation, follow cough and sneeze etiquette and use personal protective equipment (PPE) if appropriate. Immunization, when available will also significantly reduce risk.
Concern for pregnant women who may have be exposed. Contact a health care provider.

Communication Notice (recommended to be distributed if two or more cases are present)

Address

Date

Dear Parent/Guardian,

This letter is to inform you that pertussis, also known as whooping cough has been identified in our school. This disease is spread through direct contact with saliva or respiratory droplets from an infected person. These droplets can also be released into the air by talking, coughing or sneezing.

The symptoms to watch for are 1-2 weeks of a runny nose, cough that is often high pitched with a “whoop” sound, low grade fever, vomiting with coughing, and difficulty catching their breath, which can be worse at night and persist for weeks to months. Steps to prevent an infection should always be followed. Please remind your child to practice proper hand hygiene, cough or sneeze into their sleeve, discard used kleenexes properly and we ask you keep your child home any time they show any symptoms of illness. Immunization will also significantly reduce risk.

If you would like more information, please check out the fact sheet at: https://novascotia.ca/dhw/CDPC/whooping-cough.asp

For specific questions, contact a health care provider, 811 or Public Health.

Sincerely,

NAME