FORT COLLINS — A student at Fossil Ridge High School has been diagnosed with pertussis, or the whooping cough. A notice was sent out to all parents and staff early Wednesday morning telling them about the diagnosis and the potential for other students to be infected.
The student diagnosed with whooping cough has been put on antibiotics and will not be in school for the rest of the week.
The number of whooping cough cases this year has been over 5 times the average amount. In Colorado, there have been over 1,000 cases this year, as opposed to the average of 180 cases. There have been 52 cases in Larimer County alone.
Whooping cough is very contagious. It is advised that if any student feels the onset of cold- or flu-like symptoms, that he or she pays attention and possibly seeks medical help. If a harsh cough begins, seek medical help immediately.
