POC Bordetella Test Delivers PCR-Accurate Results in 15 Minutes

Whooping cough remains difficult to diagnose early because its first symptoms resemble other respiratory infections, leading clinicians to treat empirically and often too late. With whooping cough cases rising due to disrupted vaccination schedules, waning immunity, and vaccine hesitancy, clinicians face increasing diagnostic pressure across all age groups. Now, a rapid point-of-care (POC) PCR test identifies and differentiates Bordetella infections within minutes, enabling targeted antibiotic therapy during the patient visit.

Roche Diagnostics’ (Basel, Switzerland) cobas liat Bordetella panel delivers results in just 15 minutes in primary care and emergency settings, allowing physicians to diagnose pertussis at POC and initiate immediate treatment to prevent severe complications and limit transmission. The test detects and differentiates three clinically important species: Bordetella pertussis, the cause of classic whooping cough; B. parapertussis, associated with a milder pertussis-like illness that may respond differently to treatment; and B. holmesii, an emerging pathogen known to complicate diagnosis.

The assay runs on the compact cobas liat platform and expands Roche’s existing menu of rapid PCR tests for SARS-CoV-2, Influenza A/B, RSV, and Group A Strep. By enabling multiple respiratory diagnoses directly during the consultation, the system reduces dependence on centralized laboratory testing and supports faster, more precise patient management. The cobas liat Bordetella panel has now received U.S. FDA 510(k) clearance, a CLIA waiver, and CE IVDR certification.

"Faster and more accurate clinical decisions are critical for reducing the risk of severe complications and ultimately stopping the transmission of Bordetella infections.” said Matt Sause, CEO of Roche Diagnostics. “This new test allows clinicians to quickly make a definitive and precise diagnosis to ensure patients get the right treatment earlier."