Highly Contagious Whooping Cough Diagnosed in Tuscaloosa-Area Schools

The potentially dangerous and highly contagious whooping cough has been reported in Tuscaloosa-area schools this month amid a rapid increase of cases statewide.

The Alabama Board of Medical Examiners warned in early November that cases of pertussis - better known as whooping cough - were up dramatically, from 41 cases in 2023 to 123 cases in early November.

Since then, an individual at Hillcrest High School in Tuscaloosa County has been diagnosed with the cough - state regulations required the school system to notify every parent there and share guidance on detecting, preventing and treating pertussis.

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On Friday, a representative for Tuscaloosa City Schools shared information from a local pediatrician who said there were cases in two schools in Tuscaloosa last week and encouraged area parents to make sure their children are up-to-date on immunizations.

According to guidance from the Alabama Department of Public Health, pertussis is an extremely contagious bacteria disease and spread by coughing, sneezing and sharing breathing space with someone who carries it - even those who are asymptomatic.

The severity of symptoms can vary, especially with age. Adults may suffer only a persistent cough, but children can get severe cases and see their airways narrowed by mucus, resulting in the namesake "whooping" sound as they try to breathe. Infants less than a year old can develop serious complications - even potentially deadly sleep apnea.

All public schools in Tuscaloosa and Tuscaloosa County are closed this week for Thanksgiving Break, giving parents a window to learn more about pertussis and make sure both kids and adults are up to date on their vaccinations - the best prevention for the spread of whooping cough.

Read more from the ADPH here.