There are now nine confirmed cases of pertussis in Nemaha County.
That word today ( Tuesday ) from Nemaha County Community Health Services Director Jane Sunderland.
Sunderland says all nine cases, involving youth from elementary to high school age, are in the Centralia area.
She says they are working to determine who might be affected and busy giving immunizations to those who might have come in contact with those affected by the disease.
Pertussis, or whooping cough, is a contagious bacterial respiratory disease.
Sunderland says the early symptoms of pertussis often begin like a cold, with a runny nose, sneezing, fever, and cough...( play audio )
Pertussis is spread by bacteria found in the mouth, nose, and throat of infected people. The bacteria are spread in the air by droplets produced during sneezing or coughing. Symptoms usually appear six to twenty days after inhaling the droplets.
Sunderland stresses the single most effective control measure against pertussis is vaccination.
MOST VIEWED STORIES
Doniphan Co search warrant leads to 3 arrests
Holton schools mourn student death
Sex crimes charges hold Atchison teen
Fleeing, drugs, hold Atchison man
Atchison's USD 409 names new Superintendent
ATCH CO SO seeks tips regarding stolen motorcycle
Third day Superintendent candidate named by USD 409
Info sought on missing Sabetha teen
Missing Atchison couple draws renewed interest
Expansion of Atchison skatepark planned
NioCorp to begin 12-week drilling program
Atchison foundry renamed in acquisition
Olathe woman arrested in Jackson Co on drug charges
Jackson Heights names new MS/HS Principal
Hiawatha City Commission approves fireworks on trial basis
Longtime Sabetha Fire Chief to retire
Two new members appointed to Brown Co Planning Commission
LATEST STORIES
Auburn School Board approves salaries an personnel moves
Tecumseh Prison inmates arrested for 2023 assaults
Pawnee County Board approves purchase of grader
NEMAHA NRD and NRCS to administer Buffer Strip Program
Sheriff provides info on tornado warning protocol
Missing Atchison couple draws renewed interest
Ground broken for Atchison High School garden
Info sought on missing Sabetha teen