PERTUSSIS (WHOOPING COUGH) EXPOSURE NOTICE

April 20, 2012

Dear Parent or Guardian:

In the past several weeks we have seen a significant increase in the number of pertussis cases in Marathon County. We wanted to let you know that your child may have already been exposed or may be exposed to pertussis in the weeks ahead and to make you aware of what symptoms to watch for.

The incubation period for pertussis is usually 5 to 10 days, but may be as long as 20 days. Below please find links to information sheets on pertussis in multiple languages. If your child shows any of the symptoms described on this sheet, including runny nose and a cough of any kind, please keep your child at home and seek medical attention from your personal physician. 

For more information, you or your physician may call the Marathon County Health Department at (715) 261-1900.