China reported a widespread respiratory illness among children the previous week. At a press meeting, the National Health Commission of China authorities reported a surge in respiratory illness.
As per Chinese authorities, the lifting of the COVID-19 restrictions caused the rapid spread of known pathogens including influenza, Mycoplasma pneumoniae (a common bacterial infection that typically affects younger children), SARS-CoV-2 (Virus that causes COVID-19), and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
Authorities also showed their view on disease surveillance’s importance in healthcare facilities.
A similar spike in diseases caused by influenza and RSV was observed in other countries as easing the COVID-19 restrictions.
WHO seeks information from the authorities about the surge in respiratory illness.
Mycoplasma pneumoniae
Humans are susceptible to bacteria such as Mycoplasma pneumoniae. Though it may potentially cause pneumonia, mainly results in upper respiratory tract infections. It is one of the most frequent causes of atypical pneumonia. Mycoplasma pneumoniae infections have been linked to several extrapulmonary infections.
Most M. pneumoniae outbreaks take place in crowded places like college dorms and schools.
Small respiratory droplets containing M. pneumoniae are produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. If the droplets are inhaled by other individuals, they can infect them.
Source: WHO
References
- Abdulhadi B, Kiel J. Mycoplasma Pneumonia. [Updated 2023 Jan 16]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK430780/
- CDC (2022, August 24). Mycoplasma pneumoniae Infections. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Retrieved November 30, 2023, from https://www.cdc.gov/pneumonia/atypical/mycoplasma/index.html
Last updated:
