Bordatella pertussis PCR
PCR assay to detect Bordatella 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 7-10 days. Initially, the disease presents as a mild respiratory infection (1-2 weeks). The subsequent ?paroxysmal? stage is characterised by severe bouts of coughing followed by an inspiratory "whooping" sound. The cough ultimately subsides after 1-2 months. Neither the vaccine nor pertussis infection confers lifetime immunity, so periodic outbreaks of pertussis are still observed in unvaccinated infants, adolescents, and adults.
| Tube | Pernasal swab |
|---|---|
| ID | 3637 |
| Availability | Run 3 times per week |
| 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. Initial 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 0-3 weeks following cough onset. |
| Turn Around | 3 days |
| Send to | LGI Microbiology Department |
| Collection Con | To obtain a pernasal sample: Using a flexible, fine wire-shafted swab, gently insert 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. |
| IP Routine TAT | 3 days |
| GP Routine TAT | 3 days |
