Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 7, 2026

Evaluation of Host-Pathogen Responses and Vaccine Efficacy in Mice
Published on: February 22, 2019
[Pertussis--not only a childhood disease]
1Ingo_Stock@web.de
Insights
Whooping cough (pertussis), caused by Bordetella pertussis, is a rising respiratory illness. Increased cases in adults and adolescents highlight the need for effective vaccines and macrolide treatments.
Area of Science:
- Bacteriology
- Infectious Diseases
- Immunology
Context:
- Pertussis (whooping cough) is a highly contagious respiratory infection.
- Caused by the gram-negative bacterium Bordetella pertussis.
- Recent years show increased pertussis incidence globally, with a notable shift towards older populations (adolescents and adults).
Purpose:
- To summarize the current understanding of pertussis epidemiology and management.
- To highlight the challenges posed by the changing disease patterns.
Summary:
- Pertussis presents varied symptoms based on age and immunity.
- Macrolide antibiotics are the primary treatment for Bordetella pertussis infections.
- Vaccination, particularly with acellular vaccines, remains the most effective preventive measure.
Impact:
- Understanding the evolving epidemiology of pertussis is crucial for public health strategies.
- Continued research into vaccine efficacy and treatment options is necessary.
- Addressing the resurgence in older age groups requires targeted interventions.
Abstract:
Whouping cough (pertussis) is a highly contagious respiratory illness of humans that is caused predominantly by the gram-negative bacterial pathogen Bordetella pertussis. The disease shows a variety of symptoms, dependent on the patients' age and immunity. During the last years, the pertussis incidence has increased in several parts of the world. There has been a shift in the epidemiology of disease, with more cases reported in older age groups, specifically adolescents and adults. Macrolides are regarded to be the treatment of choice for the management of B. pertussis infections. Active immunization with whole cell and in particular acellular vaccines is the mainstay for prevention of disease.
Related Concept Videos
Pulmonary Tuberculosis II
Here is a detailed explanation of its pathophysiology:
Transmission: The process begins when a person inhales droplet nuclei containing M. tuberculosis. These are typically released into the air when an individual with pulmonary or...
Diphtheria
Pulmonary Tuberculosis I
Causative Organism
The primary infectious agent causing tuberculosis is Mycobacterium tuberculosis, a slow-growing, acid-fast, aerobic rod that exhibits sensitivity to heat and ultraviolet light. Instances of Mycobacterium bovis and Mycobacterium avium contributing to the development of TB infection are rare.
Mode of...
Tuberculosis
Respiratory Syncytial Virus Disease
Pulmonary Tuberculosis V
Latent tuberculosis infection occurs when TB bacteria are present in a person's body, but are not causing illness or symptoms. It is not contagious, and preventive treatment is crucial to avoid the progression...
