PCR assay that detects Bordetella pertussis. These bacteria are highly contagious and are passed from person to person through respiratory droplets and close contact. B. pertussis typically causes a prolonged infection. The incubation period is usually 7 to 10 days. Initially, the disease presents as a mild respiratory infection (1 to 2 weeks). The subsequent paroxysmal stage is characterised by severe bouts of coughing followed by an inspiratory “whooping” sound. Ultimately, the cough subsides after 1 to 2 months. Neither the vaccine, nor pertussis infection confers lifetime immunity, so periodic outbreaks of pertussis are still observed in unvaccinated infants, adolescents, and adults.
Container / Tube
Pernasal swab.
Collection Conditions
To obtain a pernasal sample: Using a flexible, fine plastic shafted swab; gently insert the swab into one nostril straight back (not upwards) until it reaches the posterior wall. The distance from the nose to the ear gives an estimate of how far back the swab should be inserted. Rotate the swab a few times then remove. Replace swab back in empty collection tube.
Please note: Rigid-shafted swabs will be rejected by the laboratory.
Please also note that wire‑shafted pernasal swabs in charcoal transport medium are no longer acceptable for PCR testing and will be rejected by the laboratory. These swabs type should only be used for Bordetella pertussis culture.
Availability
Run 3 times per week.
Send to
Microbiology Department, Centre for Laboratory Medicine, St James’s University Hospital, Beckett Street, ĢtvƵ, LS9 7TF.
Turnaround Time
3 days.
Additional Information
Suspicion of pertussis infection is increased in patients who have the classic “whoop”, and also close contacts of a confirmed pertussis case who present with cold symptoms.
Initially, symptoms may resemble those of a cold or other respiratory illness such as bronchitis, influenza, and, in children, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). During the paroxysmal stage, many adults and vaccinated patients will present with only persistent coughing. PCR should be used to test specimens taken 0 to 3 weeks following cough onset.
CE marked sample types: Pernasal swab and Nasopharyngeal aspirate