Cases of whooping cough break out at Broadalbin-Perth Schools - NEWS10 ABC: Albany, New York News, Weather, Sports

Cases of whooping cough break out at Broadalbin-Perth Schools

BROADALBIN, N.Y. - Two cases of whooping cough have been confirmed at the Broadalbin-Perth Central School District, one at each of the district's two buildings.

The district is notifying all parents in the district of the diagnoses and providing them with information on the symptoms of whooping cough, or pertussis, along with recommendations from the New York State Department of Health.

Whooping cough is a highly contagious disease that is spread through the air by cough. It begins with cold symptoms and a cough, which becomes much worse within 1-2 weeks. Symptoms usually include a long series of coughs ("coughing fits") followed by a whooping noise.

A child who has been around someone with whooping cough may become sick as well, especially if the child has not received all of the vaccines (DPT or DTaP). Even if a child's shots are up to date, he or she may still be able to catch whooping cough.

Parents who suspect their child has been in contact with someone with whooping cough should contact their family physician.