A case of pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough, has been confirmed in an eighth grader at Pennbrook Middle School in Upper Gwynedd. In a letter to students and parents, Principal James Galante says it’s a bacterial disease spread by inhaling infected droplets from coughing or sneezing, direct contact with nasal discharges or close contact with an infected child.  He says the Montgomery County Health Department recommends that all students be observed over the next two weeks for symptoms such as a runny nose or uncontrollable coughing spells.  Any child showing those symptoms should see a pediatrician.