Mycoplasma pneumoniae (M. pneumoniae) is a common cause of bacterial respiratory infections. These infections are most common in young adults and school-aged children. Infections are generally mild but sometimes can be severe. While this condition is not reportable in Illinois, there have been recent increases in percent positivity from clinical lab data, as well as several clusters reported in schools throughout the state.
M. pneumoniae is exclusively a human pathogen, which primarily causes respiratory infections. Infections can occur in the upper and lower respiratory tract. Common manifestations include pharyngitis, pneumonia, and tracheobronchitis. The bacteria can also cause a wide array of extra pulmonary manifestations, often without obvious respiratory disease. Notably, approximately 10 percent of children with M. pneumoniae infection exhibit a rash, often maculopapular; however, the rash can take many forms.
M. pneumoniae are spread through respiratory droplets from coughing and sneezing. Other people can get infected if they breathe in those droplets. Most people who spend a short amount of time with someone who is sick from M. pneumoniae don’t get the infection. However, people who spend a lot of time together are at increased risk. People living, working, and studying in crowded settings are at increased risk. The incubation period is usually two-to-three weeks, which can result in lengthy outbreaks
There is no rapid test for M. pneumoniae infections, unlike some other respiratory illnesses. Diagnosis often is made clinically through examination and history. A chest x-ray may be ordered to see if the patient has radiographic evidence of pneumonia. Clinical reference laboratories can provide diagnostic testing for M. pneumoniae infections using culture, serology, or molecular methods. PCR tests are preferred. Sensitivity may be improved with a single pathogen PCR and with a throat swab (oropharyngeal) rather than a nasopharyngeal sample. Interpretation of a PCR test is dependent on the clinical presentation as 17-25 percent of children three months-to-16 years have asymptomatic PCR positivity (colonization).
There is no vaccine to prevent infection with M. pneumoniae. Hand washing, covering coughs and sneezes, and staying home when you are ill can help prevent the spread of this bacteria. Practicing good respiratory hygiene is a core prevention strategy to lower the risk from M. pneumoniae and other respiratory illnesses. For questions, please call Kristen Dozier at 815-802-9400, ext. 323.