GT County School Sees Outbreak in Whooping Cough

The Health Department in Grand Traverse County is investigating an outbreak of whooping cough, or pertussis, at Grand Traverse Academy.

The outbreak affects numerous grades at the school.

The health department says there are six confirmed and 12 suspected cases. There are also students at the school showing symptoms who are being evaluated.

It recommends household and close contacts of these cases receive prophylactic antibiotics regardless of immunization status.

Transmission occurs from close contact with those infected. Early symptoms of whooping cough which can last one to two weeks include runny nose, low-grade fever, and mild, occasional cough.

Whooping cough can cause violent and rapid coughing until the air is gone from the lungs and the person is forced to inhale with a loud “whooping” sound.

To help prevent the spread of whooping cough, wash hands frequently, cover nose and mouth when coughing, stay at home when sick and contact your health care provider if you have a prolonged or severe cough.

It is important to for children and adults to be up-to-date on immunizations. Booster shots for whooping cough are critical because a vaccine is not a lifeline immunity.

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention have details on whooping cough here.