Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 11, 2026
Growing a Cystic Fibrosis-Relevant Polymicrobial Biofilm to Probe Community Phenotypes
Published on: April 19, 2024
Microbiological treatment failure associated with macrolide-resistant Bordetella pertussis
David Prabhakar1, Winkie Fong2,3, Eby M Sim2,3
1Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Children's Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
Background:
Despite successful vaccination programs, many countries are experiencing a marked rise in pertussis cases since 2024, compounded by the emergence of macrolide-resistant Bordetella pertussis (MRBP). Here, we report the clinical, laboratory, and genomic features of MRBP isolated from a child with severe pertussis.
Case Summary:
An 11-week-old term infant with pertussis who required intensive care unit support remained B. pertussis culture-positive despite azithromycin therapy. Pre- and post-treatment isolates demonstrated phenotypic drug resistance and carried known 23S rRNA macrolide-resistance conferring mutations.
Conclusion:
The international spread of macrolide-resistant B. pertussis warrants the introduction of susceptibility testing for this pathogen.
Insights
Macrolide-resistant *Bordetella pertussis* (MRBP) is increasing globally. This study details a severe pertussis case in an infant resistant to azithromycin, highlighting the need for susceptibility testing.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Genomics
Background:
- Pertussis (whooping cough) cases are rising globally, even with vaccination.
- The emergence of macrolide-resistant *Bordetella pertussis* (MRBP) complicates treatment.
- This study focuses on a severe pertussis case involving MRBP.
More Related Videos
10:26P. aeruginosa Infected 3D Co-Culture of Bronchial Epithelial Cells and Macrophages at Air-Liquid Interface for Preclinical Evaluation of Anti-Infectives
Published on: June 15, 2020
09:30Author Spotlight: Microbial Control and Monitoring Strategies for Cleanroom Environments and Cellular Therapies
Published on: March 17, 2023
Related Concept Videos
01:28Pulmonary 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...
01:31Defense Against Bacterial Pathogens
Phagocytes
Phagocytes are the frontline soldiers of the immune system. They include neutrophils and macrophages. Neutrophils are the most abundant type of white blood cell and are quickly mobilized to the site of infection. Macrophages are larger cells that patrol...