A case of pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough, has been confirmed at High Point Regional High School in Sussex County, New Jersey. The announcement, which did not clarify whether the individual affected is a student, teacher, or staff member, was made public through a letter from the school. Pertussis is a highly contagious respiratory infection that can cause severe illness across all age groups and poses a significant risk to infants. It is spread through coughing or sneezing.
Scott Ripley, the superintendent of the High Point Regional School District, emphasized in a letter to parents, employees, and other community members that the school is in close communication with the Department of Public Health to ensure the safety and health of both students and staff. He also reminded that New Jersey mandates pertussis vaccination for all children entering the sixth grade who are at least 11 years old, underscoring vaccination as the most effective prevention method.
Ripley advised parents to be vigilant for symptoms of pertussis in their children, which initially resemble those of a common cold, such as sneezing, coughing, and a runny nose, but can escalate to severe coughing fits followed by a distinctive “whooping” sound. If such symptoms are observed, parents are urged to keep their child at home and consult a physician. Pertussis can last for up to 10 weeks or more and is treatable with antibiotics.
The school administration is committed to working closely with public health officials to stay informed and proactive in protecting the health of the High Point Regional community. High Point Regional High School serves over 800 students from Wantage, Branchville, Montague, Frankford, Lafayette, and Sussex Borough.
