Grapevine High School reports two confirmed cases of Pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough.
Whooping cough is a vaccine-preventable infection. However, it can be easily transmitted among school-age children once the vaccine preventative begins to fade.
In the beginning, symptoms of whooping cough are much like the common cold -- fever, runny nose, and a cough. After one to two weeks, the cough gets worse and usually starts to occur in strong “coughing fits." The first symptoms usually appear within five to 21 days after a person is infected.
In a letter sent to parents, the school said it needs the help of students and family members to stop the spread of germs. Even touching a tissue or sharing a cup with someone who has whooping cough can result in the spread of disease.
Should your child experience any of these symptoms, it's best to contact your physician.
You can read the letter to parents below: