Why in news?
Researchers at the Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) in Chandigarh reported that nearly two‑fifths of patients with whooping‑cough‑like symptoms were actually infected with Bordetella holmesii. This emerging bacterium mimics classical pertussis, raising concerns about diagnosis and surveillance.
Background
Bordetella holmesii is a gram‑negative, slow‑growing coccobacillus first recognised in 1995. It can infect the respiratory tract, causing cough and fever similar to that of Bordetella pertussis, the agent of whooping cough. In immunocompromised people it may also invade the bloodstream, leading to endocarditis, pneumonia, septic arthritis and kidney infections. Because its symptoms overlap with pertussis and standard tests often misidentify it, B. holmesii has remained under‑diagnosed.
Study findings
- High prevalence: PGIMER scientists analysed samples from 935 patients with suspected pertussis between 2019 and 2023. They found that about 37 percent were positive for B. holmesii while infections caused by B. pertussis dropped to 2–5 percent.
- Misdiagnosis risk: Because B. holmesii produces similar toxins and symptoms, patients may be misclassified as having whooping cough. Misdiagnosis delays appropriate treatment and undermines vaccination strategies.
- Changing epidemiology: The decline of classical pertussis and rise of B. holmesii suggests that surveillance systems and diagnostic kits need updating to distinguish between the two pathogens.
- Call for awareness: Health authorities are urged to include B. holmesii in diagnostic panels, educate clinicians and conduct nationwide surveillance to understand its spread.
Whooping cough and its transmission
Whooping cough, or pertussis, is a contagious respiratory illness caused by Bordetella pertussis. It spreads through droplets expelled when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The disease begins with mild cold‑like symptoms but progresses to severe bouts of coughing that end in a characteristic “whoop.” Infants are especially vulnerable, and complications can include pneumonia or seizures. Vaccination with the DTaP schedule (diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis) remains the primary preventive measure.
Importance
The emergence of B. holmesii challenges existing public‑health strategies. Improving diagnostic tools and raising awareness will help ensure that patients receive appropriate treatment and that vaccination policies remain effective.
Sources: NDTV · Times of India · ET Healthworld