In line with global trends, the city is witnessing a rise in infections caused by Mycoplasma pneumoniae, a bacterium often associated with “walking pneumonia,” a typically mild form of pneumonia.
“We’re seeing more cases than in recent months,” said Dr. Aoyon Sengupta, a pediatric intensivist at SRCC Children’s Hospital, Mahalaxmi. While most cases do not require hospitalization, four children were admitted to the ICU, he noted.
Globally, a rise in walking pneumonia cases has been observed since 2023, particularly in children and young adults, though adults are also affected. The US Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reported in October that the proportion of emergency department discharges with a diagnosis of M. pneumoniae-related pneumonia or acute bronchitis increased over the past six months, peaking in late August. The CDC estimates 2 million such infections annually in the US.
As reported by TOI, a similar trend was reported in the Netherlands, where hospital admissions linked to walking pneumonia began rising in October 2023. According to an article in the January edition of Euro Surveillance, the incidence in the Netherlands reached its highest level since 2011. Dutch doctors attributed the rise to a post-Covid decline in herd immunity and an increase in diagnostic testing for respiratory symptoms.
“Previously, tests for walking pneumonia weren’t as accessible, but now hospitals offer molecular tests that identify the bacterium in just a few hours,” explained a public hospital medical teacher. These tests, while expensive, have improved diagnosis rates.
“Mycoplasma pneumoniae is not a new infection; it has been known for years. However, the reason for its heightened prevalence this year is still unclear,” said Dr. Sengupta. SRCC Hospital has reported numerous outpatient cases and hospital admissions this year.
Dr. Bhupendra Avasthi from Surya Children’s Hospital, Santacruz, noted a similar trend. “This year, we’ve observed not just an increase in cases, but 25% of diagnosed children required hospitalization,” he said. Dr. Avasthi emphasized the need for awareness to avoid improper treatments.
“When faced with bacterial infections, doctors often prescribe Augmentin or similar antibiotics. However, these are ineffective against the bacteria causing walking pneumonia,” Dr. Avasthi explained. “Only macrolides like azithromycin or erythromycin work, while tetracyclines, though effective, are not recommended for children.”
With rising cases and changing trends, medical professionals stress the importance of accurate diagnosis and treatment to manage walking pneumonia effectively.