MADERA, Calif. – An uptick in cases of mycoplasma pneumonia – also known as “walking pneumonia” and “atypical pneumonia” – is prompting physicians to urge parents to watch for symptoms and take precautions to limit its spread.
The illness is a highly contagious bacterial infection of the lungs. Like other forms of pneumonia, it can cause fever of 100.4°F or higher, coughing and difficulty breathing, and the increase in cases is being seen both nationally and in the emergency department at Valley Children’s.
Pneumonia can be caused by bacteria or viruses, and not all forms are contagious. However, mycoplasma pneumonia spreads easily from person to person through droplets. Though it typically comes with milder symptoms than other forms of pneumonia, that can lead to a higher rate of spread.
“The reason why it’s called walking pneumonia is because people who have it are generally feeling well,” said Dr. Ria Peralta, a pediatric resident at Valley Children’s. “They oftentimes don’t know that they have it and they’ll be able to be out in the community.”
Because some people don’t realize they’re ill, doctors say the bacteria can spread more widely – and pose complications for those who are medically vulnerable.
“Children who have weakened immune systems or who have respiratory illnesses such as asthma [or] cystic fibrosis, they’re at a higher probability of getting mycoplasma pneumonia,” Dr. Peralta said. “And they oftentimes experience complications during their treatment course.”
To keep children safe, Dr. Peralta recommends that parents focus on prevention and early intervention. Good hand hygiene, including regular hand washing with soap and water for at least one minute and using hand sanitizer, can help keep kids well.
If parents notice symptoms, Dr. Peralta says it’s important to contact the child’s medical provider. If it does turn out to be mycoplasma pneumonia, antibiotics will be needed.
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“As parents, you know your kids best,” Dr. Peralta said. “If they’re having a cough that’s lasting a little bit longer than a typical cold, or if they’re having difficulty breathing, we encourage you to reach out to your medical provider – because mycoplasma pneumonia does require medical treatment.”
To keep others safe, Dr. Peralta advises teaching children to cough into their elbow instead of their hands and to wear a mask and social distance if they are sick.
