A respiratory tract infection is on the rise in children, primarily affecting those between the ages of 2 and 17, according to the CDC. The infection, known as Mycoplasma pneumonia, is more commonly referred to as “walking pneumonia.” Over the past six months, emergency room visits for this condition have steadily increased, peaking in August.
Dr. Alexis Monique Javier from Memorial Hermann explained the symptoms parents should watch for. “Children may experience fever, difficulty breathing, coughing, and wheezing,” she said. “It can be challenging to detect breathing difficulties in younger kids, so if you notice your child breathing faster than usual, their ribs or neck muscles pulling in, or flaring nostrils, it’s time to visit urgent care or the emergency room.”
To give perspective, the CDC reported a significant increase in diagnoses between late March and early October. For children aged 2 to 4, the rate rose from 1.0% to 7.2%, while for those aged 5 to 17, it increased from 3.6% to 7.4%. Historically, Mycoplasma pneumonia has not been a leading cause of pneumonia in kids aged 2 to 4, making the current spike puzzling.
Dr. Javier also noted how the infection spreads. “Mycoplasma pneumonia is transmitted through respiratory droplets,” she said. To prevent it, she emphasized basic hygiene: washing hands for 20 seconds, avoiding touching the face, coughing or sneezing into the elbow, and wearing a mask if sick.
Additionally, Dr. Javier advised maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, getting enough sleep, and staying active, to help boost the immune system and keep children healthy this season.
