What is the Whooping Cough (Pertussis) Antibodies test?

The Whooping Cough (Pertussis) Antibodies test is a blood test that measures antibodies produced in response to Bordetella pertussis, the bacterium that causes whooping cough. These antibodies indicate whether the immune system has been exposed to the infection or stimulated by vaccination.

This test commonly measures IgG antibodies, which persist longer and are useful for assessing immunity or past infection. It does not diagnose acute infection on its own but provides valuable information when symptoms, exposure history, or vaccination status are unclear.

Clinically, the test is used to evaluate immunity in adults, investigate prolonged cough, and assess protection in pregnancy or around vulnerable individuals.

Why do I need a Whooping Cough (Pertussis) Antibodies test?

Immunity to pertussis wanes over time, even after childhood vaccination. Adults may develop mild or atypical symptoms and unknowingly transmit the infection to infants or vulnerable individuals.

Testing helps determine whether symptoms could be related to recent exposure, whether immunity is still present, or whether vaccination may be needed. It is particularly relevant for pregnant women, healthcare workers, carers, and people with prolonged cough.

You may need this test if you experience or require assessment for:

• Persistent cough lasting more than 2–3 weeks
• Severe coughing fits or coughing after exertion
• Known exposure to whooping cough
• Pregnancy or planning pregnancy
• Contact with infants or immunocompromised individuals
• Checking vaccine response or immunity status

Benefits of the Whooping Cough (Pertussis) Antibodies test

1. Assesses immunity status
   Determines whether protective antibodies are present.
2. Supports investigation of prolonged cough
   Helps assess past exposure when symptoms are atypical.
3. Useful in pregnancy planning
   Supports decisions around maternal vaccination.
4. Helps protect vulnerable contacts
   Important for people around newborns or high-risk groups.
5. Evaluates vaccine response
   Confirms immune response after vaccination.
6. Simple blood test
   No swabs or respiratory samples required.
7. Supports public health decisions
   Helps guide booster vaccination where appropriate.
8. Improves clinical clarity
   Adds objective data when history is unclear.

Step-by-step – How we offer this test

Option 1: Clinic-based blood test (UK-wide)

• Choose your nearest UK clinic
• Attend your appointment
• A clinician draws a blood sample
• Sample sent for antibody analysis

Option 2: Home or hotel visit (+£60, UK-wide)

• A qualified phlebotomist visits your location
• Blood sample taken at home or in your hotel
• No need to travel
• Same laboratory processing and reporting

Your results explained

Low or negative pertussis antibody levels

Low or negative levels suggest no detectable immunity or that antibody levels have declined over time.

Typical UK interpretation (low/negative):

• Below laboratory reference range

This may indicate susceptibility to infection or the need for vaccination review.

Normal / protective antibody levels

Detectable antibodies within the reference range suggest previous exposure or vaccination with ongoing immune memory.

Typical UK interpretation (protective):

• Within laboratory reference range

Protection may still decline over time, especially years after vaccination.

High antibody levels

High levels may indicate recent infection or recent vaccination, depending on clinical context and timing.

Typical UK interpretation (high):

• Above laboratory reference range

Further clinical correlation may be required.