PCR: polymerase chain reaction.
* Close contact is defined as face-to-face exposure within three feet of a symptomatic patient and/or direct contact with the respiratory, nasal, or oral secretions of a person with active pertussis.
¶ Testing is not required for diagnosis and the initiation of treatment. However, we generally test patients for public health surveillance.
Δ Direct PCR is more accurate and reliable than PCR performed as part of a multiplex assay.
◊ PCR and culture should be performed on a nasopharyngeal specimen.
