A case of the Whooping Cough has been reported at Lascassas Elementary School in Rutherford County. WGNS confirmed the information with James Evans, spokesperson for the Rutherford County School System. Evans told us the case of Whooping Cough, also known as Pertussis, was reported to them by the Health Department on Wednesday afternoon.

The National Library of Medicine defines Pertussis as a highly contagious bacterial disease that causes uncontrollable, violent coughing. The coughing can make it hard to breathe. A deep "whooping" sound is often heard when the patient tries to take a breath.

Evans stated, “They do NOT believe there is a serious health risk, but as a precaution, we are sending the following message to all Lascassas parents at 5:30 p.m.”

Hello Lascassas parents,

This is James Evans with Rutherford County Schools. We want to notify you of a situation that we found out about today. The health department has confirmed that there has been a positive case of whooping cough (pertussis) involving one student at Lascassas. 

The Health Department does NOT believe there is a serious health risk to other students but as a precaution we are posting a letter from the Health Department about whooping cough as a resource for parents who have questions. The letter has been posted on our website at www.rcschools.net (and is attached to this email). 

If you have any questions, please contact the school nurse or our health services department at 893-5812. 

Source: 

James Evans, Rutherford County Schools
National Library of Medicine