Acute Bordetella pertussis infection in an adult.

Bordetella pertussis was transmitted from an immunized boy to his father and possibly to other family members. This case report demonstrates that although unusual, acute adult B. pertussis infection can occur. B. pertussis immunization may not prevent infection but can reduce the severity. B. pertussis was detected in sputum from the adult by direct-fluorescent antibody staining and was grown on Regan-Lowe medium. Serology tests confirmed the infection in the adult.