Recent news and discussions among parents have highlighted "Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection," with cases rapidly increasing in Hong Kong. Concerns are rising among parents about whether "Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection" could become a new common infectious disease, especially as multiple viruses are circulating concurrently. This time, paediatric specialist Dr. Chan Yick-chun will share more information about Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection.
Mycoplasma pneumonia
Pneumonia caused by Mycoplasma pneumoniae is an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Mycoplasma pneumoniae.
The symptoms of Mycoplasma pneumonia are similar to those of flu, a cold, or a common cold.
Generally, Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection leads to acute respiratory infections or commonly known as "upper respiratory tract infections". Most children will develop a fever, cough, sore throat, fatigue, and even a headache. Some children who are infected may develop severe conditions leading to pneumonia!
Can an infection with "Mycoplasma pneumoniae" cause other complications?
In some cases of Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection, if the virus reaches the lungs, it can cause pneumonia. A small number of cases can also lead to other complications, including: encephalitis, impaired kidney function, and even more severe complications such as haemolytic anaemia.
What are the transmission routes for Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection?
Pneumonia mycoplasma is spread from person to person through droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. These bacteria can also be spread through direct contact with the patient's nasal or throat secretions, or indirectly through contact with objects contaminated with the patient's secretions.
What age groups are more susceptible?
Anyone, at any age, can get mycoplasma pneumoniae infection.
Where is there a higher risk of developing [condition] with prolonged exposure?
As *Mycoplasma pneumoniae* is spread through droplets or direct contact with an infected person, the chance of infection increases if you spend a relatively long time in densely populated or crowded places, such as restaurants, cinemas, or other areas with many people.
When a child is unfortunately infected with "Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection," how should they be treated? If a child is unfortunately infected with Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection, there is no need to worry too much. It is important to see a paediatric specialist for treatment as soon as possible. If it is a mild upper respiratory tract infection, the paediatrician will usually prescribe some supportive medications, including: fever reducers, cough suppressants, decongestants, expectorants, and throat anti-inflammatory medications, etc. However, if there are severe symptoms, or if the child is confirmed to have Mycoplasma pneumoniae bacteria, the doctor will prescribe antibiotics specifically for Mycoplasma pneumoniae.
When children present with severe symptoms, including wheezing, difficulty breathing, a high likelihood of pneumonia, or other symptoms, parents must seek immediate consultation with a paediatric specialist. In addition to potentially prescribing antibiotics, doctors will consider different treatment plans based on the child's symptoms. If there is bronchospasm, bronchodilator medication may be considered, and hospital investigation might be recommended, including a chest X-ray to confirm pneumonia, or the prescription of supportive medication and assessment of the child's blood oxygen levels. If breathing is difficult, depending on the child's condition, oxygen therapy or even higher levels of respiratory support may be necessary.
Is it easy to get infected when you are away from home? What are the preventive measures?
During the Christmas long holiday, many parents take their children on trips. When travelling by plane or boat, these hidden spots can easily lead to children getting infected. Alternatively, when children visit crowded places such as restaurants, dining establishments, or playgrounds, they are more likely to contract Mycoplasma pneumoniae bacteria.
As there is no vaccine for Mycoplasma pneumoniae yet, prevention often focuses on good personal hygiene, including: advising children to keep their hands clean, especially before touching their mouth, nose or eyes, and before eating or after using the toilet. Additionally, parents are advised to use soap and water to clean their hands and to remind children to rub their hands for at least 20 seconds, which can effectively clean dirt from hands and reduce the chance of infection.
Additionally, please remind children to cover their mouth or nose with a tissue when they sneeze or cough. It is also important to maintain a balanced diet, particularly by consuming Vitamin C to boost their immunity. Regular exercise and adequate rest can also reduce the chances of children contracting Mycoplasma pneumoniae. Finally, parents are also reminded to pay attention to their children's sleep duration and quality, as this can help enhance their resistance.
If children show symptoms of a cold or flu, it is recommended to see a doctor as soon as possible for proper diagnosis and treatment. However, overall, although Mycoplasma pneumoniae is common in the community, it often only causes mild upper respiratory tract symptoms, so parents need not worry excessively.
Source: UrbanLife Health New Health Attitude (7 December 2023): https://bit.ly/4a8A6lY
