AIIMS, Delhi has identified Mycoplasma pneumonia, the bacterium associated with a recent rise in respiratory illnesses, particularly pneumonia, among children in China. Between April and September this year, seven cases were detected, with one through an early-stage PCR test and six through the IgM Elisa test, usable even in later stages of infection, as reported in Lancet Microbe.
The positivity rates for PCR and IgM Elisa tests were 3% and 16%, respectively. AIIMS Delhi, part of a global consortium monitoring the spread of Mycoplasma pneumonia, emphasises the need for expanded surveillance in India. Dr Rama Chaudhry, from AIIMS Delhi, notes that M pneumonia causes 15-20% of community-acquired pneumonia, often referred to as 'walking pneumonia,' with mild cases, but severe instances can occur.
What Is Walking Pneumonia?
According to the American Lung Association (ALA), ‘Walking Pneumonia,’ is not a medical term but is rather used to describe a mild form of pneumonia that allows the person to remain functioning.
However, that does not mean that getting ‘walking pneumonia,’ is a piece of cake and will not make you miserable. Some common symptoms of it are:
- Cough
- Fever
- Chest pain
- Mild chills
- Headache
The ALA listed the following precautions:
- Pneumonia can also be caused by the flu, so keep up with your vaccine mandates.
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle that includes daily exercise, balanced meals, and quality sleep.
- Avoid smoking or drinking.
- Maintain good hand hygiene.
- Maintain social distancing if you are unwell, or in proximity to someone who may have walking pneumonia.
India’s Efforts Against Walking Pneumonia
Dr Chaudhry stresses the need to enhance surveillance beyond AIIMS Delhi and a few other centres. The Lancet report indicates that in countries where M pneumonia has re-emerged, case numbers are comparable to pre-pandemic levels. The report suggests ongoing monitoring to assess whether the re-emergence will reach epidemic levels or result in a significant wave of infections.
"The progression and severity of re-emergence are difficult to predict, and whether it will lead to an increase in rare cases of severe disease remains unknown," the report states. It concludes by noting that infections occur throughout the year, urging continued vigilance and research to understand the dynamics of Mycoplasma pneumonia resurgence.
Also Read: What Is Walking Pneumonia, The Condition Behind China’s Mysterious Outbreak Among Children?