Walking Pneumonia Cases Spike Nationwide, Disproportionately Affecting Children, African Americans
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is reporting a significant increase in cases of Mycoplasma pneumoniae infections, commonly called “walking pneumonia,” across the United States. According to data from Nationwide Children’s Hospital, this milder form of pneumonia is seeing an unprecedented rise among children, particularly those as young as 2 years old.
Dr. Jason Newland, Chief of Infectious Diseases at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, described the surge as unusual. “We haven’t seen this level of Mycoplasma pneumoniae cases in a long time,” he told WOSU radio. While walking pneumonia can affect people of all ages, symptoms are typically more common and severe in children over 5 years old.
Understanding Walking Pneumonia
Walking pneumonia is caused by the Mycoplasma pneumoniae bacteria, which infects the lungs. Symptoms include a lingering cough, fatigue, chills, and shortness of breath, which can persist for weeks or months. While many recover without antibiotics, some cases can become severe, particularly for individuals with underlying health conditions.
“Most of the time, people feel unwell but can continue daily activities; hence the name walking pneumonia,” Newland explained. “However, for some families, it can be more serious than expected.”
An infectious diseases specialist, Dr. Craig Shapiro, emphasized the importance of early detection and treatment. “While generally mild in healthy children, this illness can cause severe complications in those with preexisting conditions,” he noted.
A Disproportionate Burden
Pneumonia has a disproportionate impact on African Americans, who experience higher infection rates, more severe complications, and increased mortality compared to other racial groups. Factors such as limited access to preventive care, higher rates of asthma and diabetes, and socioeconomic disparities contribute to this inequality.
“This is not a new bacteria, but we’re seeing an uptick in cases,” Shapiro added. “The key is recognizing symptoms early and ensuring equitable access to healthcare.”
Recognizing and Preventing Walking Pneumonia
Parents should be vigilant for signs of labored breathing, persistent coughing, or fatigue in their children. Shapiro also advised keeping symptomatic children at home to limit the spread of infection. “Simple measures like handwashing remain the best way to prevent infections,” he said.
For those diagnosed with Mycoplasma pneumoniae, antibiotics like azithromycin or doxycycline are most effective when started early, particularly for children with weakened immune systems.
A Post-Pandemic Shift
Experts partially attribute the rise in walking pneumonia cases to increased social interactions as pandemic restrictions ease. “We’ve seen more susceptible groups exposed as people resume normal activities,” Newland noted.
As respiratory viruses like RSV begin to rise with the flu season, health experts recommend revisiting pandemic-era precautions, including handwashing, staying home when sick, and wearing masks in crowded spaces.
“Equitable access to healthcare and early recognition of symptoms is crucial for mitigating the impact of walking pneumonia, especially among the most vulnerable,” Shapiro said.
By taking proactive measures, families and healthcare providers can reduce the spread of walking pneumonia and other respiratory illnesses during this critical time.