Mycoplasma Pneumonia

A contagious disease that primarily targets children and teens, caused by Mycoplasma pneumoniae. Although anyone can get the disease, it occurs most often in older children and teens. The infections occur sporadically throughout the year, but they are most common in late summer and fall; widespread community outbreaks may occur every five to eight years.

Cause
Mycoplasma pneumonia is caused by M. pneumoniae and spread through contact with droplets from the nose and throat of infected people when they cough or sneeze. Scientists believe transmission requires close contact with an infected person. The contagious period is probably less than 10 days.

Symptoms
After an incubation period of from one to 25 days, symptoms of dry cough, fever, sore throat, headache, and malaise appear. Ear infections also may occur. Symptoms may last from a few days to a month or more.

Diagnosis
The disease can be diagnosed based on the symptoms; a nonspecific blood test may help in the diagnosis.

Treatment
Antibiotics including erythromycin or tetracycline (over age 8 ) are effective.

Prevention
There are no vaccines to prevent the spread of mycoplasma infection, and there are no reliable methods for control.