Ravalli County Schools Dealing with Whooping Cough

HAMILTON, Mont. (AP) — The principal at Corvallis High School says the Ravalli County health department's decision to require students without current whooping cough vaccines to stay home until May 14 has been a logistical headache for his staff.

But it's not keeping track athletes from continuing to practice as the girls hope to defend their Class A state championship.

Principal Jason Wirt tells the Ravalli Republic he supports the effort to try to halt the outbreak that has infected 29 people. But he notes teachers are working extra hours to prepare homework packets for the 100 or so students who had not been immunized.

Superintendent Monte Silk says many of the non-immunized track athletes have been practicing separately from the rest of the team, with the health department's permission. The divisional meet is May 18-19.