(KLZA)-- A case of pertussis has been confirmed in Falls City.

That's according to releases Wednesday from Falls City schools.

Pertussis is commonly referred to as whooping cough, which is a respiratory tract infection.  Annually 75 – 200 cases of pertussis are reported each year in Nebraska.  Transmission occurs by direct contact with discharges from respiratory secretions of infected persons when they cough and sneeze.  

According to the Southeast District Health Department, classic pertussis infections have three distinct phases of illness.  The first stage is characterized by sinus congestion, runny nose, slight sore throat, and low grade or absent fever. This stage can last one to two weeks. The cough becomes progressively more severe and can become so close together that the person cannot take a breath between coughs.

Following the coughing spell, the person gasps for air, which may sound like a whoop.  Vomiting may follow the coughing spell.  The severe coughing marks the beginning of the second stage, which may last two to four weeks.  The third stage of pertussis infection is the convalescent stage.  The stage can also last two to four weeks during which time the vomiting and whooping gradually lessen. 

For adults, the illness is often milder and without the whooping and vomiting.  

Antibiotics appear to be helpful in shortening the illness if given during the first stage. Since a person is considered communicable for 21 days after onset of severe coughing, the infected person should be excluded from day care, school, and or work for five days after beginning antibiotic treatment.  Without treatment of if the diagnosis is delayed, exclusion for three weeks after onset of the severe cough is suggested.  

Vaccinations for pertussis are available for children. 

For more information you may visit the Southeast District Health Department website at www.sedhd.org.