MARCELLUS -- A second case of whooping cough, or pertussis, has been confirmed in the Marcellus School District.
The latest case was found in a student at Driver Middle School.
Earlier this month, a case was confirmed at Marcellus High School.
Pertussis is a highly contagious disease that is spread through the air by cough. It can begin with cold symptoms, low grade fever and a cough, which becomes much worse over one to two weeks.
Symptoms usually include a long series of coughs ("coughing fits") followed by a whooping noise. Older children, adults and very young infants may not develop the whoop. People with pertussis may have a series of coughs followed by vomiting, turning blue, or difficulty catching their breath. The cough is often worse at night and cough medicines usually do not help alleviate the cough.
If you think your child has come into contact with someone who has whooping cough, contact your doctor.
