Walking Pneumonia in Kids Surging This Fall, CDC Warns

Public health officials are alerting parents and schools about a sudden rise in cases of walking pneumonia in kids across the US this year.

The CDC reports that infections from Mycoplasma pneumoniae, a bacteria causing the illness, have significantly increased since spring, impacting children more than ever.

Data from the CDC highlights that the proportion of pediatric pneumonia cases attributed to this bacteria doubled between April and October 2024. Walking pneumonia, which usually peaks from late summer to early fall, is known for its milder symptoms.

However, it still poses serious risks, especially if left untreated or if the infected child has pre-existing health issues.

Why Walking Pneumonia is Spiking in Kids

According to health experts, multiple factors contribute to the current spike. The rates of walking pneumonia in kids are returning to pre-pandemic levels after seeing lower numbers during COVID-19.

Additionally, advancements in diagnostic tests are likely detecting more cases than in previous years.

Mycoplasma pneumonia spreads through respiratory droplets from coughs and sneezes, making schools, daycare centers, and other crowded indoor spaces hotspots for transmission. Symptoms often take one to four weeks to appear after exposure.

Kids affected may remain active and not feel the need to stay in bed, leading to the term “walking pneumonia.” However, prolonged symptoms like a persistent cough, sore throat, and headaches can worsen over time.

Rising Cases in Children Under Five

CDC data from the National Syndromic Surveillance Program indicates that from March to early October, emergency visits for walking pneumonia in kids surged.

The increase was most notable in children aged two to four, whose emergency visits rose from 1% to 7.2%. This is unusual since infections historically impacted school-age children more than toddlers.

For children under five, symptoms can include fever, sneezing, wheezing, vomiting, watery eyes, and diarrhea. More severe cases may lead to asthma, severe pneumonia, or even brain complications, requiring hospitalization.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Walking Pneumonia in Kids

Diagnosing walking pneumonia involves looking for signs of respiratory illness and may require chest X-rays or nasal swabs.

The bacteria Mycoplasma pneumoniae can linger in the body for months, leading to extended symptoms. Standard antibiotics like amoxicillin are often ineffective against this bacterial infection.

Instead, doctors prescribe macrolides like azithromycin, which specifically target walking pneumonia in kids.

While there is no vaccine for this type of pneumonia, early diagnosis and correct treatment are crucial to avoid severe illness.

Doctors stress the importance of recognizing symptoms and promptly consulting a healthcare provider if a child’s cough worsens or is accompanied by fever and fatigue.

Other Respiratory Illnesses Adding to the Problem

This increase in walking pneumonia in kids comes as other respiratory infections like whooping cough and RSV are also on the rise.

In 2024, the US saw a dramatic surge in whooping cough cases, jumping from under 4,000 last year to nearly 18,000 this year. Whooping cough is particularly dangerous for babies under a year old, with many requiring hospitalization.

The situation creates what experts are calling a “perfect storm” of respiratory illnesses, overwhelming healthcare providers and raising concerns for parents.

To keep children safe, doctors recommend staying alert to symptoms, ensuring kids practice good hygiene, and avoiding exposure in crowded settings when possible.

Source: Northlines.com, Independent.co.uk