Is There a Rise in Infections from a Lesser-Known Bacterium?
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Synopsis
A new study from PGIMER reveals alarming trends in respiratory infections caused by a lesser-known bacterium resembling whooping cough in northern India. This report highlights the urgent need for enhanced surveillance and research to combat this emerging public health challenge.
Key Takeaways
- PGIMER identifies a surge in infections from a lesser-known bacterium.
- Bordetella holmesii surpasses traditional B. pertussis infections.
- Significant increase observed in children aged 5-10 years.
- Long-term surveillance indicates a shift in respiratory illness causative agents.
- Collaboration with CSIR-IMTECH strengthens research efforts.
Chandigarh, Oct 30 (NationPress) A research team at the Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) in Chandigarh has observed a notable increase in infections attributed to a lesser-known bacterium that closely resembles whooping cough (pertussis) in northern India.
This revelation follows the team’s prior identification of Stenotrophomonas sepilia, a novel bacterium linked to sepsis, showcasing PGIMER's forefront position in the study of emerging infectious diseases.
Pertussis, often referred to as whooping cough, is an extremely contagious respiratory infection that has historically contributed to significant childhood mortality, with fatality rates soaring to 10 percent in the early 1900s.
In Asia, pertussis remains a considerable public health challenge, particularly in India and China, predominantly impacting young infants and children.
After a brief downturn during the Covid-19 pandemic, cases have surged: India recently documented nearly 13.6 million cases.
The current investigation from PGIMER, published in the Emerging Infectious Diseases journal (US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), evaluated 935 suspected pertussis cases from 2019 to 2023.
Researchers found that approximately 37 percent of infections stemmed from Bordetella holmesii — surpassing traditional infections caused by Bordetella pertussis.
The most significant spike was noted in 2023, especially among children aged 5-10 years in northern India.
According to data gathered through PGIMER's ongoing surveillance program since 2015, the prevalence of B. pertussis has declined from 15-20 percent to merely 2-5 percent, while infections from B. holmesii have markedly increased.
This transition indicates a changing trend in the causative agents of pertussis-like respiratory conditions in the area.
This long-term research project was led by Vikas Gautam's laboratory at PGIMER, in partnership with Prabhu Patil of CSIR-IMTECH in Chandigarh.
These findings underscore PGIMER's crucial role in identifying emerging pathogens and enhancing infectious disease surveillance in India.
Point of View
The findings from PGIMER reflect a critical shift in respiratory infections, calling for immediate attention from health authorities and policymakers. As we witness a resurgence of cases, it is imperative to strengthen surveillance and research frameworks to safeguard public health.
NationPress
25/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What bacterium is causing the rise in infections?
The increase in infections is attributed to Bordetella holmesii, a lesser-known bacterium that mimics whooping cough.
How does this affect children?
Children aged 5-10 years are particularly affected, with a significant rise in cases reported in this age group.
What is the historical context of whooping cough?
Pertussis, or whooping cough, has been a leading cause of childhood mortality, with fatality rates reaching 10 percent in the early 20th century.
What does the decline in B. pertussis mean?
The decline in B. pertussis prevalence suggests a changing landscape of respiratory illnesses, highlighting the need for updated public health strategies.
How can we combat this emerging threat?
Enhancing surveillance and research efforts, particularly in affected regions, is crucial to combatting the rise of infections from B. holmesii.
