KINGWOOD, W.Va. — Preston County Schools has confirmed a case of whooping cough (pertussis) in a student, prompting an alert to the community about potential exposure within the school system.

According to a Facebook post issued by the school system Wednesday evening, multiple students at Preston High School and those riding Bruceton-area buses may have been exposed to the highly contagious respiratory illness.

Parents and guardians who notice symptoms of whooping cough in their child are advised to contact their primary care provider immediately. Symptoms often resemble those of a common cold in the early stages, followed by severe coughing fits.

The confirmed case in Preston County is the latest in a series of pertussis diagnoses across the state in recent months, which have included

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