A basic guide to “Mycoplasma” and its relationship to the pneumonia epidemic

As pointed out, this must be taken into account Maria Theresa ColasThe microbiology expert at the European University in Madrid said that this bacteria is an old acquaintance. It is known that “it produces epidemics more or less every three years, and in the last three years we have all worn masks.” This and other preventive measures protect citizens from infectious diseases, but in turn, ‘Our immune system has stopped learning’

.The expert added that now is the time to “repay the immunity debt we owe.” Children will be more vulnerable to pathogens after regulations to deal with the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus pandemic that causes covid-19 end , because “their immune system study” Therefore it is not mature yet.

Infections caused by this bacteria have also increased in other parts of the world. Especially in China, Children’s highest respiratory illness rates attributed to restrictions lifted due to covid-19 pandemic, is also related to the arrival of cold weather and the circulation of pathogens such as influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).And, specifically, it has been relevant Mycoplasma pneumoniae With childhood pneumonia on the rise. “China was a little late in lifting restrictions, which is why they saw a spike in increased infections in children last autumn and winter with different pathogens,” Rivas stressed.

Currently, Spain is not among the countries reporting an increase in infections. MycoplasmaHowever, experts do not rule out that there may also be a peak in incidence compared with other years. Globalization and the constant movement of travelers between countries have facilitated this.

Characteristics of “Mycoplasma” and its mode of transmission

Mycoplasma pneumoniae It is a bacterium that causes infections around the world, causing an epidemic approximately every 3 years. Its clinical manifestations mainly occur in the respiratory tract and are a common cause of SARS.. SARS is pneumonia caused by less common microorganisms than those that cause the most common pneumonia and has slightly different symptoms.

“It’s a respiratory infection; It spreads relatively easily through droplets expelled when we cough or sneeze.” described Rivas. In closed settings such as day care centers or schools, transmission between children is easier. In addition, the expert added, “Because the incubation period is long – ranging from 4 days to 3 weeks – this is very difficult for people to do. Transmission from person to person takes a long time. “

Symptoms and severity of this bacterial infection

One of the most typical symptoms of infection Mycoplasma pneumoniae The following points stand out:

A common consequence of infection with this bacteria is pneumonia, which is usually mild and generally does not require hospitalization. In the words of Koilas, It is often called “walking pneumonia Because those affected are fine. And they don’t have to stay in bed. ”

Regardless, this infection is asymptomatic in many cases, especially in adults. It is rare for children to have this condition in the first few years of life. More common between ages 5 and 15. It can occur at any time of the year with no significant seasonal variation.

Treatment and bacterial resistance to antibiotics

infected with this pathogen Treatment is relatively easy with macrolide antibiotics.this group includes erythromycin and azithromycin, among others.

The problem is the increase in strains Mycoplasma pneumoniae Rivas believes this will lead to “antibiotic resistance” Cases are more difficult to treat, recovery from infection is slower, and pneumonia is more likely to result“.

Resistance to macrolide antibiotics is increasing globally, but is more pronounced in Asia. This may at least partially explain the current large increase in hospitalizations for pneumonia caused by this pathogen in China. “In some areas of the country, strains Mycoplasma pneumoniae Resistant to antibiotics“Koilas revealed. In Beijing, for example, “it has been reported that some strains are 70-90% resistant.”

Mycoplasma pneumoniae Compared with commonly used antibiotics. “