April 27, 2024

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The prolonged outbreak of “Mycoplasma Pneumonia” in Korea

The prolonged outbreak of “Mycoplasma Pneumonia” in Korea, three times longer than the common cold



The prolonged outbreak of “Mycoplasma Pneumonia” in Korea, three times longer than the common cold

The number of hospitalized patients with “Mycoplasma Pneumonia,” an illness that lingers about three times longer than the common cold, has doubled in four weeks. Since there is no vaccine, it is crucial to adhere strictly to infection prevention measures such as handwashing.

What is Mycoplasma Pneumoniae? How to treat it?

On Nov 17th, Korea Disease Control Agency announced that the number of patients hospitalized with Mycoplasma Pneumonia increased from 102 in the third week of October (October 15-21) to 226 in the second week of November (November 5-11), marking a 2.2-fold increase.

Looking at hospitalized patients by age, 7-12 years old accounted for 111 people (49.1%), 1-6 years old for 69 people (30.5%), and children aged 1-12 accounted for 79.6% of the total. Following that were age groups 19-49 (7.5%), 13-18 (6.2%), and 65 and older (3.1%).

Mycoplasma Pneumonia: Another “COVID-19” Outbreak in China?

Mycoplasma Pneumonia is a respiratory infection caused by a bacterium called Mycoplasma pneumonia. It is classified as a Class 4 statutory infectious disease along with the novel coronavirus and influenza.

While it exhibits symptoms similar to a cold, such as fever, headache, runny nose, and sore throat, the distinctive feature is that the symptoms last for about three weeks. In general, it lingers about three times longer than a cold that usually resolves in a week.

This disease spreads through respiratory droplets (saliva), nasal discharge, and contact with the patient. It is easily transmitted within families living with patients and in communal living facilities such as care facilities and dormitories.

In Korea, it is known to occur in cycles of 3 to 4 years. In the recent outbreak in 2019, 2,894 people were hospitalized in just one month in November.

The Disease Control Agency emphasized, “Since there is still no preventive vaccine for Mycoplasma Pneumonia, it is essential to strictly adhere to etiquette such as handwashing and coughing in group activities at schools.” They also stated, “If respiratory symptoms occur, it is recommended to refrain from attending school or daycare and rest at home.”

The prolonged outbreak of “Mycoplasma Pneumonia” in Korea, three times longer than the common cold

(source:internet, reference only)


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