Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 11, 2026
Precision Induction and Distinction of Coughing and Sneezing Reflexes in Mice
Published on: October 3, 2025
Whooping cough due to Bordetella parapertussis: an unresolved problem
Mineo Watanabe1, Masaaki Nagai
1University of Cincinnati, Department of Molecular Genetics, Biochemistry and Microbiology, 231 Albert Sabin way, Cincinnati, OH 45267-0524, USA. mineo.watanabe@uc.edu
Abstract:
Bordetella parapertussis is one of the bacteria that causes whooping cough. However, little attention has been paid to this bacterium because it causes a milder illness than Bordetella pertussis and the rate of detection is low, even though research suggests that pertussis vaccines have limited efficacy against B. parapertussis infection. However, recent studies have revealed high rates of detection in patients with whooping cough in some field studies. In this review, the relevant studies of B. parapertussis are summarized and it is demonstrated that it is now necessary to pay greater attention to infections by this bacterium.
Insights
Bordetella parapertussis causes milder whooping cough but is often missed. Increased attention is needed as pertussis vaccines show limited efficacy against this bacterium.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Vaccinology
Background:
- Bordetella parapertussis is a bacterial cause of whooping cough, often presenting with milder symptoms than Bordetella pertussis.
- Limited attention has been given to B. parapertussis due to historically low detection rates and perceived milder illness.
- Pertussis vaccines, primarily targeting B. pertussis, demonstrate potentially limited efficacy against B. parapertussis infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and summarize current research on Bordetella parapertussis.
- To highlight the increasing evidence of B. parapertussis's role in whooping cough.
- To advocate for greater clinical and research focus on B. parapertussis.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review of studies related to Bordetella parapertussis.
- Analysis of recent field studies reporting detection rates of B. parapertussis.
- Synthesis of information regarding vaccine efficacy and clinical significance.
Main Results:
- Recent studies indicate a higher-than-expected prevalence of B. parapertussis in patients diagnosed with whooping cough.
- The bacterium's contribution to the overall burden of whooping cough may be underestimated.
- Evidence suggests existing pertussis vaccines may not provide adequate protection against B. parapertussis.
Conclusions:
- Bordetella parapertussis is an important pathogen in whooping cough that warrants increased attention.
- Current diagnostic and surveillance strategies may need re-evaluation to improve B. parapertussis detection.
- Further research into B. parapertussis pathogenesis, diagnostics, and vaccine strategies is crucial.
