Question

The efficacy of PCR to test for pertussis is highest in ______ weeks of illness.

a) 1-2
b) 3-4
c) 5-6
d) 7-8

Answer 1

The PCR test for pertussis is most effective within the first 1-2 weeks of illness, as it can accurately identify the presence of B. pertussis during this time.

Step-by-step explanation:

The efficacy of PCR to test for pertussis is highest in the early stages of illness. Specifically, within the first 1-2 weeks of illness, the PCR technique is the most effective for diagnosing the presence of Bordetella pertussis, the bacterium that causes pertussis. Beyond this time frame, as the infection progresses, the detection of pertussis-specific antibodies using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) becomes a more suitable diagnostic method. It is also important to collect nasopharyngeal (NP) specimens properly and transport them quickly to the laboratory to maintain the viability of B. pertussis for accurate culturing and detection.