Rising Whooping Cough Cases Prompt Caution in Scottsboro
Scottsboro, AL – In a concerning turn of events, whooping cough, also known as pertussis, is experiencing a notable resurgence across the nation, and communities here in Scottsboro are feeling the impacts. Just last week, parents of students at at least three local high schools received letters informing them about confirmed cases within their campuses.
This situation became particularly pressing when a student at Scottsboro High School was diagnosed on a Tuesday afternoon. In response, the school is now collaborating with the Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) to determine how best to proceed, while custodial staff is following enhanced cleaning protocols reminiscent of those practiced during the COVID pandemic. According to a communication sent to parents, this is the first confirmed case reported this school year for the Scottsboro City Schools.
Auburn High School, Corner High School, and Highland Park Elementary have also reported similar cases recently, as noted by Chad Holden, the superintendent of Muscle Shoals City Schools. These developments are raising awareness and prompting parents to be vigilant about their children’s health.
What is Whooping Cough?
For those unfamiliar, whooping cough is caused by a type of bacteria that infects the mouth, nose, and throat. The illness spreads easily, primarily through the air when an infected person coughs. Symptoms can show up anywhere from 5 to 21 days after exposure. Initially, whooping cough may present as cold-like symptoms such as sneezing and a runny nose, but it can quickly escalate into a severe cough that often manifests in coughing fits.
During these fits, individuals can find it difficult to breathe, leading to a distinctive “whooping” sound, especially in young children. Adults, teenagers, and vaccinated children usually experience milder symptoms, which can sometimes be confused with bronchitis or asthma. One key thing to note is that individuals with whooping cough are highly contagious during the early stages of the illness.
What Should Parents Do?
The note sent to parents at Scottsboro High School contained guidance for what to do if their child shows symptoms that might indicate whooping cough. They were advised to consult with a doctor right away if their child develops cold symptoms followed by a persistent cough. In fact, parents should inform the healthcare provider about the cases of pertussis reported at the school.
If a child is tested and pertussis is suspected, it’s critical to keep them at home for the first five days of any prescribed antibiotic treatment or until clear test results are available. Keeping the community safe is a collective effort!
Vaccination is Key
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently indicated that cases of whooping cough are climbing back up to pre-pandemic levels, with over 18,000 cases reported so far in 2024 – the highest number at this point in the year since 2014. Public health officials stress that now, more than ever, parents need to consider getting their children the Tdap booster shot, especially for those who are 11 years and older. In Alabama, the initial Dtap pertussis vaccine is administered up until the age of seven, and its protective effects can taper off as children grow older.
Although whooping cough is commonly observed in infants and toddlers, who can encounter severe complications, recent outbreaks are increasingly affecting older kids and teenagers. The ADPH and health professionals, including Dr. Kris Bryant specializing in pediatric infectious diseases, emphasize the importance of getting tested and treated early to limit the spread.
Protecting Our Children
As we continue to witness these rising cases, it’s crucial for parents and caregivers to stay informed and proactive. As stated by Dr. Bryant, “pertussis is worth preventing,” and the reassuring news is that there are safe and effective vaccines available to protect our children.
Let’s keep our community safe and healthy by staying informed and vigilant, working together as we navigate these health challenges!
