Pertussis (Whooping Cough)

The College has been informed of a confirmed case of Pertussis (whooping cough) in the school community. Pertussis is spread to other people by droplets from coughing or sneezing.

Untreated, a person with Pertussis can spread it to other people for up to three weeks after onset of a cough.

People diagnosed with Pertussis should stay away from school while infectious (up to 21 days) or until they have completed five days of a course of a recommended antibiotic.

It is particularly important not to expose young children to infection.

It is recommended that children be vaccinated according to the Western Australian vaccine schedule.

Ms Fiona Richmond

Nurse Manager, Scotch College Health Centre

An Allergy Aware School

The number of children with food allergies in Australia is increasing and it is estimated that 1 in 20 have a food allergy and 1 in 50 have a nut allergy.

The symptoms of food allergies range from mild to life threatening and anaphylaxis is the most severe form of allergic reaction.

Why is it important that schools become allergy aware?

In Australia more that 90% of fatal reactions to food have occurred in children aged 5 years and older.

Of those who died from anaphylaxis, 90% have been allergic to nuts with the exposure being accidental and usually away from home (including school).

As Scotch College is an allergy aware school we ask that all parents not send any foods containing nuts into school.