Global Surge in Pediatric 'Walking Pneumonia' Cases

Mycoplasma Pneumoniae Infections Rise, CDC Monitoring Situation

Mycoplasma pneumoniae, also known as 'walking pneumonia', is causing a surge in pediatric pneumonia cases in China, Europe, and the United States.
The bacteria is not new and is known to cause upper or lower respiratory tract infections, including pneumonia.
The symptoms of mycoplasma pneumoniae may appear gradually and can resemble those of many other respiratory infections, including headache, fatigue, sore throat, fever, and cough.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that the bacteria causes an estimated 2 million infections yearly, typically peaking every three to seven years.
There is currently no vaccine for mycoplasma pneumoniae, but preventive measures include handwashing, staying home when ill, and masking when appropriate.