Case of whooping cough confirmed in county

By Roz Weis,

Wednesday, December 18, 2024 2:11 pm

A case of whooping cough has been confirmed in Winneshiek County.

In a letter to parents December 17, local public health officials wrote:

“This note is to let you know that at least one person at the Decorah Middle and High Schools have been identified as having pertussis and are being treated with antibiotics. Pertussis is an infection that affects the airways and is easily spread from person to person by coughing or sneezing. It causes a severe cough that can last for weeks or months, sometimes leading to coughing fits and/or vomiting. Anyone can get pertussis, but it can be very dangerous for infants and people with weakened immune systems or lung problems.
Winneshiek County Public Health has initiated contact tracing efforts. They have sent, or will soon send, letters to parents of children identified as being at the highest risk of becoming ill. However, since pertussis has been confirmed in the district, public health recommends that you make sure your family’s vaccinations are up-to-date. Basic protection against pertussis is provided by childhood pertussis vaccine, but this protection can decrease over time. Therefore, children (11 years of age and over) and all adults should get a booster shot for pertussis (Tdap) to boost their immunity. If you or a family member needs any pertussis vaccines, contact your
healthcare provider.
For more information on pertussis, please visit: Pertussis Fact sheet or contact your Winneshiek County Public Health Department at 563-382-4662.”

Sincerely,

Julie Goedken BSN, RN
Selina Quandahl BA, RN
Decorah School District Nurses

Tim Cronin
Decorah Community School District Superintendent

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