Whooping cough outbreak hits 8 western NC students, with more cases expected

A whooping cough outbreak has spread through schools in western North Carolina, with eight students affected by the illness, according to multiple media reports.

Five schools in Henderson County, including three elementary schools, have confirmed cases.

Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, is a contagious respiratory illness that causes airways to swell, according to the Centers for Disease Control. Symptoms may not show for weeks, but when they do, the disease is noted for causing violent and rapid coughing. It can be particularly harmful for babies, according to the CDC.

Henderson County officials expect additional cases to be confirmed, as more than 500 students could have come in contact with the students already diagnosed, according to TV station WLOS.

“It’s a little bit concerning, because it’s something that can be, you know, pretty serious, and especially for those who have infants,” a parent told the TV station.

School officials have alerted parents of the outbreak, according to reports.

The best way to prevent the spread of whooping cough is through vaccination, health experts say. DTaP, the recommended vaccination for babies, helps prevent two other illnesses in addition to whooping cough, according to the CDC.

This story was originally published November 30, 2017 at 4:09 PM with the headline "Whooping cough outbreak hits 8 western NC students, with more cases expected."