Doctors across Long Island and the nation are observing a concerning surge in respiratory infections, particularly “walking pneumonia,” among young children. The culprit behind this rise, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), is the bacteria Mycoplasma pneumoniae.
Walking Pneumonia Surge: Doctors Sound the Alarm
Between March 31st and October 5th, the percentage of pneumonia-associated emergency department visits linked to Mycoplasma pneumoniae jumped significantly. For children aged 2 to 4, it increased from 1% to a notable 7.2% nationally. The increase was equally alarming in children aged 5 to 17, rising from 3.6% to 7.4%, and for all ages, it climbed from 0.5% to 2.1%.
Symptoms of Walking Pneumonia
Symptoms of Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection can take one to four weeks to appear and often include a sore throat, fever, and a gradually worsening cough. Young children may also experience wheezing, vomiting, diarrhea, and watery eyes.
WHAT NEWSDAY FOUND
- The CDC reported an increase in bacterial infections from Mycoplasma pneumoniae is causing a rise in walking pneumonia cases, especially among young children. Long Island doctors reported a similar trend.
- Symptoms include sore throat, fever and slowly worsening cough. Children may also experience wheezing, vomiting and diarrhea.
- Mild infections may go away on their own but serious infections can be treated with certain antibiotics.
Dr. Eve Meltzer Krief, a pediatrician at Allied Physician Group’s Huntington Village Pediatrics, has observed a surge in these cases in recent months.
Doctors on the Frontlines
“We’re seeing a lot of this type of illness,” she said. “It’s typically seen in school-aged children, but we’re seeing it in younger kids too. We’re on alert for it in any patients coming in with a history of prolonged cough, with or without a low-grade fever.”
The CDC’s observations echo Dr. Lynda Gerberg’s experience at Northwell Health GoHealth Pediatric Urgent Care. Dr. Gerberg reports, “We weren’t exposed to all these bacteria and viruses. Our immune system is just catching up. It left everybody a little more susceptible to these types of illnesses.”
Dr. Gerberg distinguishes “typical” pneumonia, characterized by a sudden high fever and a heavy, wet cough, from “walking pneumonia,” which often begins with a mild cold, scratchy throat, and low-grade fever, followed by a persistent cough that can last for several days.
Spread and Treatment
The bacteria spreads through respiratory droplets released when people cough or sneeze, making schools, colleges, hospitals, and long-term care facilities vulnerable to outbreaks.
While mild cases might not require medication, serious infections can be treated with antibiotics. The CDC notes that Mycoplasma pneumoniae is resistant to some antibiotics like amoxicillin, but typically responds to azithromycin.
Dr. Gerberg advises seeking medical attention if a person with symptoms experiences a high fever combined with a persistent cough, dehydration, fatigue, shortness of breath, chest pain, or pressure.
Protect Yourself and Your Family
Stay informed about current health trends and consult with your doctor if you experience concerning symptoms.