Laboratory Information
This photomicrograph shows numerous Gram-positive non-spore-forming, rod-shaped, Corynebacterium diphtheriae bacteria.
CDC’s Pertussis and Diphtheria Laboratory provides laboratory support to U.S. health departments requesting assistance with isolation, identification, and sub-typing of:
- Bordetella pertussis
- B. parapertussis
- B. holmesii
- B. bronchiseptica
- Corynebacterium diphtheriae
- C. ulcerans
- C. pseudotuberculosis
The laboratory serves as a resource and outbreak support for state and local health departments, domestic and international researchers, and other laboratory and hospital personnel. CDC is also actively involved with developing, evaluating, implementing, and improving molecular and serologic methods, techniques, and strategies. These efforts will enhance the diagnosis and surveillance of agents causing diphtheria and pertussis.