Abstract
Pertussis (whooping cough) is a highly communicable disease caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis. Specific diagnosis is made using clinical symptoms and laboratory detection of the etiologic agent. Recent molecular techniques have been reported that allow more rapid results using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). A survey of state public health laboratories was done to determine test methods available for pertussis diagnosis with emphasis on PCR method characteristics. Results show that 70% of state public health laboratories offer PCR in conjunction with culture and direct fluorescent-antibody (DFA). A majority of public health laboratories offer PCR testing for pertussis, for a variety of possible reasons. Testing by PCR should be used in addition to culture, not as a replacement.
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