Rowan County Health Department News Service

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services are currently monitoring the rise in Mycoplasma pneumoniae cases. M. pneumoniae is a bacterium that typically causes mild respiratory illnesses such as bronchitis and pneumonia. While the infections are particularly notable among young children, cases have been seen across all age groups. Rowan County is also seeing an increase among young and school-aged children, including cases leading to hospitalization.

What is Mycoplasma Pneumoniae?

Mycoplasma pneumoniae is a bacterial infection that affects the respiratory tract, leading to symptoms such as fatigue, fever, sore throat and cough. Often, it causes a mild form of pneumonia commonly referred to as “walking pneumonia” due to its relatively mild symptoms. While most people recover without complications, severe cases can occur, especially in children and individuals with weakened immune systems. Serious complications can include worsening asthma, severe pneumonia, or in rare cases, brain inflammation.

Recent trends and risks

The CDC reports that hospital emergency departments have seen an increase in diagnoses of M. pneumoniae-related pneumonia, particularly among children aged 2–4 years, an age group not traditionally associated with this infection. Emergency room visits for M. pneumoniae infections have been steadily high, highlighting a need for public awareness and preventative steps to protect our most vulnerable citizens.

Infections can occur in anyone but are more common in children aged 5–17 years and young adults. Children younger than five years old will often present slightly different symptoms such as wheezing, diarrhea and vomiting. Outbreaks often arise in crowded environments such as childcare facilities, schools and dormitories, due to the bacteria spreading through respiratory droplets from coughing and sneezing.

Recommendations for staying healthy

For the general public, the CDC recommends the following steps to help reduce the spread of M. pneumoniae and other respiratory infections:

Practice good hygiene: Wash your hands regularly, cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing and avoid close contact with sick individuals.

Stay home if you’re sick: Mild symptoms, such as a persistent cough and low fever, can still spread the bacteria to others. This is particularly important to prevent the spread of illnesses among children who attend daycare and school. These settings can often lead to the rapid spread among small children. The incubation period of illness can last for weeks leading to illness continuing to spread in one classroom.

Seek medical attention when needed: If symptoms such as wheezing, difficulty breathing, or persistent coughing worsen, contact a healthcare provider, especially for young children or individuals with asthma or other respiratory conditions.

Treatment and recovery

Most M. pneumoniae infections are mild and can improve without antibiotics. Over-the-counter medications can ease symptoms in mild cases, while certain antibiotics may be prescribed for those with pneumonia. However, not all antibiotics are effective against M. pneumoniae, so individuals are encouraged to consult a healthcare provider for appropriate treatment options if symptoms persist or worsen.