Bordetella

pertussis Bordetella pertussis is a Gram-negative, aerobic, encapsulated coccobacillus bacterium that is a human-specific pathogen, and the causative agent of the highly contagious respiratory disease known as whooping cough. Although high rates of vaccination have served to reduce the rate of infection, B. pertussis continues to cause millions of cases of pertussis annually, especially in places where vaccination rates are lower. Diagnosis of B. pertussis infection is typically based upon time-tested techniques, such as clinical presentation, physical examination, and culture or serology. Treatment typically involves antibiotics, such as erythromycin, and may also include supportive measures to reduce the severity of symptoms, such as the use of corticosteroids. Vaccination continues to be the best form of protection against B. pertussis and its complications.