WJJQ LOCAL NEWS
Pertussis at Tomahawk Elementary School

Thursday, March 29, 2012

The Lincoln County Health Department is reporting four students at Tomahawk Elementary School have been diagnosed with pertussis or whooping cough.

Pertussis is an upper respiratory infection spread through coughing or sneezing on others. Early symptoms include a low-grade fever, mild cough and a runny nose. As it progresses traditional symptoms appear including rapid coughs followed by a high pitched whoop, vomiting and tiredness after coughing fits.

The Lincoln County Health Department called those exposed to the outbreak. Students that have not been contacted by the Health Department are at a low risk.

Most children received a series of vaccinations for Diphtheria, Tetanus and Pertussis between the ages of six months and 4.

The department says "vaccines are the most effective way to protect you and others from disease." Protection against pertussis can fade according to the department. Any questions can be directed to 715-536-0307.

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