A third pertussis case in the first month of 2019 has been confirmed at a Lexington school. This case of whooping cough comes at an elementary school.
The Fayette County Health Department is notifying parents at Athens-Chilesburg Elementary School of a confirmed case of pertussis. The previous two cases of whooping cough occurred at Henry Clay High School and Tates Creek High School.
Pertussis is a highly contagious respiratory illness spread by coughing and sneezing. It affects people of all ages but is typically most serious in infants and those with chronic diseases.
Officials at the health department are recommending preventive antibiotics for high-risk students who were exposed to pertussis. Lexington area schools will be closed Wednesday due to weather conditions.
