Work

Microbiological treatment failure associated with macrolide-resistant Bordetella pertussis

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: ABSTRACT Background Despite successful vaccination programs, many countries are experiencing a marked rise in pertussis cases since 2024, compounded by the emergence of macrolide-resistant Bordetella pertussis (MRBP). Here, we report the clinical, laboratory, and genomic features of MRBP isolated from a child with severe pertussis. Case Summary An 11-week-old term infant with pertussis who required intensive care unit support remained B. pertussis culture-positive despite azithromycin therapy. Pre- and post-treatment isolates demonstrated phenotypic drug resistance and carried known 23S rRNA macrolide-resistance conferring mutations. Conclusion The international spread of macrolide-resistant B. pertussis warrants the introduction of susceptibility testing for this pathogen.

Source: ASM Case Reports

DOI: 10.1128/asmcr.00093-24