StrongStart

Dear Parent and/or Guardian:

This letter is to inform you that there has been a case of pertussis (whooping cough) at the Strong Start with Sidney Elementary school. Dates of exposure include April 5 and April 12. Individuals who have attended the Strong Start program on these dates may have been in contact with the bacteria, which are spread by coughing.

Pertussis begins with cold-like symptoms that may progress to a severe cough with a distinctive ‘whooping’ sound, which may be followed by gagging and/or vomiting. Symptoms can last for several weeks. This can be very serious, particularly for infants under one year of age. Pregnant mothers in their third trimester can also be at risk as they may expose their new born infant after birth. If you or any of your family members develop symptoms as described above, please contact your health care provider to test for pertussis bacteria.

If someone is diagnosed with pertussis, antibiotic treatment will be needed. After five days of treatment, the individual will no longer be considered infectious and can return to school or work.

It is also important to ensure that your children are up to date with their immunizations against pertussis. These immunizations are normally given to children during the first year of life, at 18 months, and upon entering kindergarten. There is one additional booster shot when children are in grade 9. Please take this opportunity to check if pertussis immunizations are up to date for children in your family. You can receive vaccines at your local Public Health Unit or at some doctors’ offices.

A Health File on pertussis is attached for your information.

When attending a health care clinic, we suggest taking this letter with you to help provide clarity.

For more information, please call your local Public Health Unit: