Stafford School Community Member Diagnosed With Whooping Cough

MANAHAWKIN, NJ — A member of the Stafford school community in the Stafford Township School District was diagnosed with whooping cough, officials announced Monday.

The principals of McKinley Avenue Elementary School and Stafford Intermediate School made the announcement. Both schools are located at 1000 McKinley Ave.

The announcement doesn't clarify whether the person was a student or staff member. No other information about him or her was provided.

Stafford schools are currently closed until March 30 as a precaution for the novel coronavirus. Governor Phil Murphy also indefinitely shut all schools. Read more: NJ Schools Will Close Due To Coronavirus Outbreak: Gov. Murphy

The illness spreads when an individual coughs or sneezes, according to officials. Children less than one year old are at the greatest risk for serious complications.

"Pertussis (whooping cough) begins with cold symptoms and a cough, which become worse over 1-2 weeks," the letter says. "Symptoms usually include a long series of coughing fits followed by a whooping noise."

However, older children, adults and infants may not develop a discernible whoop.

The district and New Jersey Health Department recommend the following:

• keep infants away from anyone with a cough. If an infant develops a coughing illness, have them see a pediatrician.
• Anyone in contact with your children should be immunized against whooping cough. If anyone in your family hasn't been vaccinated, speak with a physician about immunization.
• If you child develops cold symptoms, including several days of cough, talk to a physician immediately. You can let them know that a student or staff member at their school was diagnosed with pertussis.
• Do not send you child to school if they have any signs or symptoms of whooping cough.

If you have any more questions, contact you child's doctor, school nurse or the Ocean County Health Department at 732-341-9700.

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