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Rise in pertussis-like infection

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November 01, 2025

Prelims: Current events of national and international importance | Health

Why in news?

A team of researchers at PGIMER, Chandigarh, has reported a significant rise in infections caused by a lesser-known bacterium (Bordetella Holmesii) that mimics whooping cough in north India.

Bordetella holmesii

  • Bordetella holmesii is a Gram-negative bacterium.
  • 1st described in – 1995.
  • It can cause pertussis-like (whooping cough) symptoms, as well as invasive infections like bacteremia, pneumonia, and endocarditis.
  • It is often difficult to distinguish from Bordetella pertussis using common diagnostic tests, which can lead to misdiagnosis and mask the prevalence of B. holmesii.
  • The bacterium can infect both healthy individuals and those with compromised immune systems, particularly those who are asplenic (lack a spleen).

Key Findings of the study

  • Surpassing B pertussis – Nearly 37% of infections were caused by Bordetella holmesii, while only around 13% were linked to B. pertussis.
  • The prevalence of B pertussis declined from 15-20% to just 2-5%, while infections from B holmesii rose markedly since 2015.
  • The year 2023 was recorded most significant increase, predominantly among children aged 5-10 years in northern India.

Quick Fact

Pertussis
  • It is a highly contagious bacterial respiratory illness, commonly known as whooping cough.
  • Caused by – Bordetella pertussis.
  • Historically, it has been a major cause of childhood mortality, with fatality rates reaching 10% in the early 20th century.
  • Transmission – Spread through coughing and sneezing.
  • Risk – The disease is most dangerous in infants, and is a significant cause of disease and death in this age group.
  • Symptoms –
    • Early symptoms (1-2 weeks) – Runny nose, mild cough, fever, and sneezing.
    • Later symptoms – Severe, uncontrollable coughing fits that can lead to difficulty breathing.
    • The characteristic "whoop" sound may or may not occur, particularly in infants who may just gasp for air and turn blue.
  • Prevention – Vaccination – DTaP vaccine - to young children & Tdap vaccine for adolescents, adults (including a dose during each pregnancy), and those who will have close contact with infants.
  • Potential complications – Pneumonia, seizures, brain damage from lack of oxygen, in severe cases it may lead to death.
  • Prevalence – Pertussis continues to pose a significant public health burden, particularly in India and China, primarily affecting young infants and children.

References

  1. The Hindu |Rise in chest infections due to lesser-known bacterium
  2. The New Indian Express | Surge in whooping cough like infection
  3. WHO | Pertussis

 

 
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