A third case of pertussis, or whooping cough, has been confirmed by the Kennewick School District.

The illness, which is one of several that children receive immunizations for,  is charaterized by uncontrolled fits of coughing, watery eyes, fever, and other flu-like symptoms.  KSD officials have confirmed a case from Cottonwood Elementary School and Desert Hills Middle School, a third case as well, and a possible case from Kamiakin High School.  Officials are trying to determine the connection between the cases;  Cottonwood is a feeder school to Desert Hills, and many DH students go on to KaHS.  They think it could be that they ride the same busses, but nothing has been confirmed.  The students are being treated and are not in school.  State and KSD officials stress if your student attends those afore mentioned schools, and suspect symptoms, they need to be checked by a physician.   WA state law requires proof of pertussis immunization prior to entering the school district.   More information will be posted here as it becomes available.

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