May 16, 2024
Dear Parents and Guardians,
This letter is to inform you that we have recently learned of a case of Pertussis, also known as Whooping Cough, at Seale Jr. High School.
Whooping Cough is a highly contagious bacterial infection that spreads through close contact, especially when an infected person coughs. This infection affects the airways, and symptoms can appear 5 to 21 days after exposure. It typically begins with cold-like symptoms (sneezing, runny nose, etc.) followed by a worsening cough over one to two weeks. People with Whooping Cough may have intense coughing fits, making it difficult to catch their breath between coughs. The persistent cough often includes a "whooping" sound and can lead to vomiting or a choking sensation. Fever is usually not present.
Vaccination is effective at preventing the disease or reducing its severity shortly after the vaccine series or booster dose. However, immunity from the vaccine can wane over time, so even fully vaccinated children may still contract Whooping Cough.
A Tdap booster dose is recommended for children aged 11–12 and is required for 7th-grade entry in Texas. It is also recommended for adults, especially pregnant women and caregivers of young infants and the elderly. The Tdap vaccine is widely available through doctors’ offices, some pharmacies, and local health departments.
If your child has cold-like symptoms and a cough, please contact your doctor and inform them that a confirmed case of Whooping Cough has been reported at your child’s school. If your child is diagnosed with Whooping Cough, they must stay home until they have completed 5 full days of prescribed antibiotic treatment.
The Corpus Christi–Nueces County Health Department has been informed the situation, and we will closely monitor for any new cases. We are taking appropriate precautions to help prevent the further spread of Pertussis in our schools.
If you or your doctor have any questions, please contact our Director of Health Services, Melissa Chavez, at 361-767-6600 ext. 6013, or call the Corpus Christi–Nueces County Health Department at 361-826-7200.
Sincerely,
Melissa R. Chavez, BSN, RN,
Director of Health Services,
Robstown ISD