- The test provides PCR-accurate results in 15 minutes.
- It differentiates between B. pertussis, B. parapertussis, and B. holmesii.
- Pertussis causes 24.1 million cases and 170,000 deaths annually.
- Whooping cough peaks every 3 to 5 years, with a current surge.
Rapid Diagnostic Advancement
Roche's new point-of-care test for Bordetella infections, including whooping cough, delivers PCR-accurate results in just 15 minutes. This speed allows healthcare providers to diagnose and treat patients promptly, reducing the risk of severe complications and transmission.
Comprehensive Detection
The test differentiates between three Bordetella species: B. pertussis, B. parapertussis, and B. holmesii. This differentiation is crucial as these infections present similar symptoms but may require different treatments.
Impact on Vulnerable Populations
Pertussis is particularly severe in infants and the elderly, with an estimated 24.1 million cases and 170,000 deaths annually. Early and accurate diagnosis is essential to prevent severe outcomes in these groups.
Current Epidemiological Context
Whooping cough is a cyclical disease, peaking every three to five years. The current surge in cases is exacerbated by disruptions in routine vaccinations, waning immunity, and vaccine hesitancy, affecting all age groups.
