The first day of school is just days away in Haywood County, and health officials are keeping a close watch on a summertime outbreak of pertussis, also known as whooping cough.
The county has confirmed 13 cases since early July — three adults and the rest children and teens. The most recent case was reported Aug. 1. Health officials say there have been no new confirmed infections since.
“We’re cautiously optimistic heading into the school year,” said Sarah Banks, Ph.D., the county’s public health director. “But once we bring kids back together in close quarters, we have to watch closely.”…