Whooping Cough Cases Reported at Rochester Schools

Rochester, MN (KROC-AM News)- The Rochester Public School District (RPS) is alerting parents and caregivers to reported cases of pertussis. 

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A note sent to the RPS community says the bacterial illness, which is commonly known as whooping cough, has been reported at Rochester’s high schools and throughout the broader community. 

The number of reported cases was not disclosed in the email. 

What is Whooping Cough? Mayo Clinic Has the Answers

Mayo Clinic says a case of whooping cough typically starts with mild symptoms that are similar to the common cold. Those symptoms, which tend to appear 7-10 days after infection, are a runny nose, nasal congestion, red and watery eyes, fever and cough. 

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The symptoms then worsen about two weeks after infection and can be in the form of prolonged and severe coughing attacks prompted by the buildup of thick mucus accumulation in the body's airwaves, according to Mayo Clinic. 

Pertussis tends to be less severe for older children and adults but can pose a danger to infants, the RPS email says. 

There is a vaccine aimed at preventing the illness. Mayo Clinic says the vaccine, which is administered to children, begins to lose its efficacy around age 11 and requires a booster shot for further protection. 

RPS is asking everyone with the disease to avoid school, work, or public activities until completed five full days of antibiotic treatment. 

The school district says any questions regarding the illness can be directed to Olmsted County Public Health Services at 507.328.7500.

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