16-04-2025
Whooping cough cases confirmed in Carteret County Schools
CARTERET COUNTY, N.C. (WNCT)- The Carteret County Health Department has confirmed cases of pertussis (whooping cough) in the county including at two schools.
The schools include Broad Creek Middle School and Croatan High School. Public Health Nurse Director Kim Davis says they are working closely with schools through notifying parents of potential exposures and providing guidance on symptoms and prevention. High risk students who were exposed could be advised to take preventive antibiotics
Whooping cough is highly contagious and can be very serious, especially for infants and people with chronic illnesses. Symptoms include runny nose, worsening cough or 'whooping' sounds. Children with these symptoms should stay home from school and call their health care provider.
Vaccination is the best way to prevent whooping cough. School age children should be up to date on DTap/Tdap vaccines, while older children and adults who haven't received a booster should contact their health care provider or the health department at 252-728-8550.
For more information on whooping cough and vaccines, visit CDC Pertussis Symptoms and CDC Vaccines.
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