Whole-genome sequencing of Bordetella pertussis in Kobe city, Japan

The spread of macrolide-resistant strains is a public health concern. Multi-locus sequence types (MLST), virulence factor alleles, and antimicrobial resistance markers are important molecular characteristics of Bordetella pertussis. The aim of this study was to examine the genomic epidemiology and evolution of B. pertussis strains collected through active surveillance in Kobe city, Japan. Furthermore, this study aims to elucidate the route of infection, possession of virulence factors, resistance mechanisms, and cellular pathogenicity of macrolide-resistant B. pertussis.