What is it?
Whooping cough (pertussis) is a highly contagious respiratory tract infection caused by a type of bacteria called Bordetella pertussis. Pertussis bacteria attach to the cilia (small hair-like extensions) that line part of the upper respiratory tract. These bacteria release toxins (poisons) that damage the cilia and cause inflammation of the airways.
The bacteria that cause whooping cough spread easily from person to person through the air. When a person who has whooping cough sneezes or coughs, they can release small particles with bacteria on them. Other people then inhale the bacteria.
Pertussis vaccine received in childhood eventually loses its effect. This leaves most adolescents and adults exposed to the infection during an outbreak, and outbreaks continue to occur.
The symptoms
Once you get whooping cough, it takes 7 to 10 days for signs and symptoms to appear, although sometimes it can be longer. Symptoms are usually mild at first and resemble those of the common cold:
- Runny nose
- Nasal congestion
- Red, watery eyes
- Fever
- Cough
After one to two weeks, signs and symptoms worsen. Thick mucus builds up in the airways and causes uncontrollable coughing. Severe, prolonged attacks of coughing may:
- Cause vomiting
- Turn the face red or blue
- Cause extreme fatigue
- End with a high-pitched whistling, whooping sound when breathing in air
However, many people do not have the characteristic whooping sound. Sometimes, a persistent dry cough is the only sign that an adolescent or adult has whooping cough.
Who is it indicated for?
The test is indicated for all those who have symptoms of pertussis, or who suspect they may be infected.
Results
The results report indicates whether the presence of Bordetella pertussis bacteria in the organism is:
- Positive
- Negative
It is used to detect whether you or your child has pertussis, so that you can receive appropriate treatment which, during the early stages of infection, can make symptoms less severe and help prevent the spread of the disease.
Process
Nasopharyngeal swab with a swab.
Receipt and analysis of the sample in our laboratory.
Results report sent within 24-48 hours.
For further clarification, your doctor will explain the results.
How does it work?
Choose to take care of yourself.
Pay securely.
Go to a Cerba center.
Check your results online.
