Test for whooping cough

What’s measured

The illness usually begins like a common cold, characterised by symptoms such as a runny nose, nasal congestion, sneezing, and occasionally a mild cough or fever. After about one to two weeks, intense coughing fits develop. 
As the symptoms may resemble those of other diseases, it's essential to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis. (2)

What we will test you for

We test for PCR DNA of Bordetella pertussis/parapertussis.
A nasopharyngeal swab is the most appropriate method and should be performed after the onset of symptoms (within 2 weeks in children and within 4 weeks in unvaccinated individuals). 
It is most convenient to collect the sample from the posterior wall of the nasopharynx through the nasal cavity. 

Instructions before collection

INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE COLLECTION:
AT LEAST 2 HOURS BEFORE COLLECTION YOU MUST NOT eat, drink, smoke, chew gum, gargle, rinse your mouth or nose, use nasal/throat sprays, drops or mouth wash, nor brush your teeth. 
 
WHAT SAMPLE IS TAKEN?
airway epithelial cells.
 
COLLECTION METHOD:
swabbing of the upper respiratory tract - nasopharynx and throat/pharynx.
 
HOW IS THE SAMPLE TAKEN?
By sterile swab on a plastic stick.
1. the palatal arches are wiped with a swab in a circular motion without touching the tonsils, 
2. the mucous membrane of the posterior part of the nasal vault (nasopharynx) is wiped with a swab through both nostrils.

•    Protect yourself and your surroundings by wearing a protective mask.
•    In case of signs of upper respiratory tract disease, contact your physician. 

NOTICE: During and/or shortly after swabbing, the individual may experience brief discomfort at the site of the swabbing as well as in the head area, which may include discomfort, mild pain, nausea, a vomiting sensation, and/or general increased tension - especially in susceptible individuals. We recommend deep breathing and relaxing as much as possible during the procedure.

Sources

(1) Hučková D, Kollárová K, Adamčíková J. Prehľadové články. Možnosti včasnej diagnostiky pertussis. Solen, 2009. Reffered from : https://www.solen.sk/storage/file/article/0c6be8c123daf052d859e5ea54c76eae.pdf. Accessed on 9th May 2024.

(2) John Hopkins Medicine. Health. Whooping Cough (Pertussis) in Adults. Refferedn from : https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/whooping-cough-pertussis-in-adults. Accessed on 9th May 2024.