Others who are a bit more subtle will require testing via a nose and throat swab. People infected with pertussis can spread the bacteria from the time their symptoms start until at least two weeks ...

When should an adult with a spasmodic upper-respiratory infection be swabbed for pertussis? — CONNIE KELLY, FNP, Franklin, N.Y. In adults and older children, pertussis is rarely fatal but can ...

Any close contact with the cough should also be tested for pertussis with a swab deep in their nose. Anyone with pertussis also needs to isolate at home for the full 5 days of treatment.

The clinician is shown wearing the PPE required during collection of a nasopharyngeal swab specimen. First, put on a protective gown, wash your hands with soap and water (or use an alcohol-based ...