Resurgence of Bordetella pertussis, including one macrolide-resistant isolate, France, 2024
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Published on: February 22, 2019
Carla Rodrigues1,2,3, Valérie Bouchez1,2,3, Anaïs Soares4
1These authors contributed equally to this work and share first authorship.
Abstract:
As other European countries, France is experiencing a resurgence of pertussis in 2024. Between 1 January and 31 May 2024, 5,616 (24.9%) positive Bordetella pertussis qPCR tests were identified, following a 3-year period of almost null incidence. Of 67 cultured and whole genome sequenced B. pertussis isolates, 66 produced pertactin and 56 produced FIM2, in contrast to pre-COVID-19 years. One isolate of genotype Bp-AgST4 was resistant to macrolides. Pertussis resurgence may favour isolates that produce FIM2 and pertactin.
Insights
France is seeing a pertussis resurgence in 2024, with over 5,600 cases. This increase may be linked to Bordetella pertussis strains producing pertactin and FIM2, with one macrolide-resistant isolate identified.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Epidemiology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- France, like other European nations, is witnessing a significant resurgence of pertussis (whooping cough) in 2024.
- A 3-year period of minimal pertussis incidence preceded this current outbreak.
- Pertussis, caused by *Bordetella pertussis*, is a highly contagious respiratory infection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the characteristics of *Bordetella pertussis* isolates during the 2024 pertussis resurgence in France.
- To identify potential factors contributing to the increased incidence of pertussis.
- To assess antimicrobial resistance patterns in circulating *Bordetella pertussis* strains.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of positive *Bordetella pertussis* qPCR tests from January 1 to May 31, 2024.
- Culture and whole genome sequencing of 67 *B. pertussis* isolates.
- Characterization of virulence factors (pertactin, FIM2) and antimicrobial resistance.
Main Results:
- 5,616 positive *Bordetella pertussis* qPCR tests were identified between January 1 and May 31, 2024.
- Of 67 sequenced isolates, 66 produced pertactin and 56 produced FIM2, a notable shift from pre-COVID-19 years.
- One isolate exhibited macrolide resistance, belonging to genotype Bp-AgST4.
Conclusions:
- The pertussis resurgence in France in 2024 is associated with an increased prevalence of *Bordetella pertussis* isolates expressing pertactin and FIM2.
- These specific bacterial factors may play a role in the current epidemiological trend.
- The emergence of macrolide resistance in *Bordetella pertussis* warrants ongoing surveillance.
