The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) exposes a growing concern with the rise in walking pneumonia cases, medically termed as Mycoplasma pneumoniae, across multiple hospitals in the United States, an issue that is notably affecting Arkansas as well. This particular type of lung infection has seen a troubling surge, especially among children.
Dr. Amanda Novack, an infectious disease specialist attached to Baptist Health, sheds light on the matter. According to her, an increase in the number of positive Mycoplasma tests in hospital patients has been noticeable throughout the course of the year. The nature of walking pneumonia, often presenting mild symptoms, contributes to its widespread dissemination. Individuals affected by the infection usually don’t confine themselves to bed rest or home isolation due to the unalarming symptoms, which is suggestive of how the infection gets its colloquial name ‘walking pneumonia’.
Describing the symptoms of the disease, Dr. Novack mentioned a runny nose, sore throat, and symptoms similar to bronchitis. She clarified that while Mycoplasma pneumoniae typically affects school-aged children (5-18 years), this year they have noticed a growing number of cases among younger children (2-4 years). However, the infection does not discriminate by age, as cases have been identified amongst elders up to 90 years of age.
Dr. Novack suggested that there might be several reasons behind the recorded uptick in walking pneumonia cases this year. One perspective could be the correlation with the COVID-19 pandemic. During the period of significant mask-usage and active social distancing, there was a relative decline in cases. When bacteria such as Mycoplasma were not widespread for a while, the immunity of the community may have been weakened, making individuals more susceptible upon its return.
In order to mitigate the spread of this infection, Dr. Novack urges the practice of good hand hygiene and proper cough etiquette. Utilizing techniques such as coughing into one’s elbow and the consistent use of tissues can significantly reduce transmission. This advisory is essential if we consider the CDC’s statistics – the United States witnesses over two million cases of walking pneumonia annually.