Whooping Cough (Pertussis) Antibodies
The Whooping Cough (Pertussis) Antibodies test measures antibodies against Bordetella pertussis. It helps assess immunity, past exposure, or recent infection.
Turnaround time
6 days
Biomarkers count
1
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Details about Whooping Cough (Pertussis) Antibodies
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
- Assesses immunity status
Determines whether protective antibodies are present. - Supports investigation of prolonged cough
Helps assess past exposure when symptoms are atypical. - Useful in pregnancy planning
Supports decisions around maternal vaccination. - Helps protect vulnerable contacts
Important for people around newborns or high-risk groups. - Evaluates vaccine response
Confirms immune response after vaccination. - Simple blood test
No swabs or respiratory samples required. - Supports public health decisions
Helps guide booster vaccination where appropriate. - 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.
How It Works
Simple steps to get your results
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Visit or Test at Home
Attend one of our UK or London clinics, arrange a home nurse visit, or use a finger-prick kit where available.
Get Your Results
Your sample is analysed by accredited UK laboratories, with secure results delivered directly to you.
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WhatsApp UsHow to Prepare for Your Test
Follow these guidelines for accurate results
Sample Timing
Where possible, attend your blood test between 7am and 12pm. Please wait until any short-term illness or infection has fully resolved before testing. Avoid intense exercise for 24–48 hours beforehand, as this can affect certain markers.
Fasting & Hydration
Fasting is not always required, but some tests may recommend it. If fasting is advised, avoid food for 8–12 hours before your appointment and drink water only. Stay well hydrated, as this helps with sample collection and accuracy.
Medications & Supplements
Continue prescribed medications unless advised otherwise by your clinician. Avoid vitamin, mineral, or biotin supplements for at least 24–48 hours before your test, as these can interfere with results. If you are unsure about any medication or supplement, please let us know before your appointment.
Hormones & Menstrual Cycle
For hormone-related tests, timing within your menstrual cycle may be important. If relevant, follow any specific guidance provided on your test page.
If you have any questions or special circumstances, our team is happy to advise before your appointment.