FISHERS, Ind. — The Fishers Health Department has sent a message to parents warning of a possible whooping cough outbreak at Hamilton Southeastern Schools.
The Fishers Health Department has reported multiple probable or suspected cases of pertussis, commonly called whooping cough, over the past week. The cases were detected at three different HSE schools.
In the letter to parents, Fisher's Health Director Monic Heltz said the risk of serious complications was low for most students. Heltz writes that students who have been exposed don't need to be excluded from school.
Students diagnosed with pertussis should remain out of school until they have been on effective antibiotic treatment for five days. If no antibiotics are prescribed, the student needs to wait 21 days before coming back.
The full letter is below:
Dear parent or guardian,
The Fishers Health Department (FHD) has received reports of several probable or suspected cases of pertussis over the past week, spanning three different HSE schools. For most students, the risk of serious complications from pertussis is low, and exposed students do not need to be excluded from school. However, students diagnosed with pertussis should remain out of school until they have been on effective antibiotic treatment for five days, or for 21 days if no antibiotic is prescribed.
Students with severe asthma or other immunocompromising conditions may be at greater risk of severe illness from pertussis, as are infants under 12 months of age and pregnant women in their 3rd trimester. Previous vaccination with DTaP or TdaP provides protection but not complete immunity. Most students have received DTaP as infants and as part of the kindergarten vaccines, and/or Tdap in the sixth grade. Most adults should receive a Tdap every 10 years or with the birth of a new child. If you or a family member need a vaccine, please check with area providers or schedule with FHD.
Pertussis, also known as whooping cough, is a highly contagious respiratory illness caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis. Initial symptoms typically present as 1-2 weeks of the common cold. Later symptoms may include coughing fits, vomiting after coughing, and often a high-pitched “whoop” on inhale. This stage can last up to 10 weeks. Please seek immediate care for any breathing difficulties and see a healthcare provider for any violent coughing, or concerns related to individual risk factors.
Contact FHD directly or follow this link for more information: About Whooping Cough | Whooping Cough | CDC
As we head into respiratory season, we encourage all residents to stay home when sick, cover your cough, stay up-to-date on vaccinations, and wash your hands.
Sincerely,
Monica Heltz, DNP, MPH, FNP-C
Director/Health Officer
Fishers Health Department
