Kid’s cough won’t go away? It could be Mycoplasma Pneumonia

Paediatric nurse, Sarah Hunstead, shares the facts on the illness currently taking over many Aussie homes. Have you had any casualties?

Mycoplasma pneumonia or "walking pneumonia" is making its way around many Aussie homes - and winter hasn't even really hit yet! So what is it? And could it be the reason your kids aren't recovering from that recent cough or head cold? 

Mycoplasma infections, particularly in children aged five to 16, have increased in NSW recently. So let’s break down the facts. ⁠

It is important to note that an increase in Mycoplasma Pneumonia circulation usually peaks every three to seven years as population immunity wanes; meaning that this is nothing new. 

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What is it?

Mycoplasma Pneumonia is caused by Mycoplasma pneumoniae, a type of bacteria with no cell wall. They generally cause mild, widespread pneumonia that affects all age groups.

So why is it often referred to as ‘walking pneumonia’? People with Mycoplasma Pneumonia may appear well and so are able to go about their day normally, unknowingly potentially spreading their illness, hence the term.

What are the symptoms?

The symptoms of this kind of pneumonia are different from those of the other types, and generally develop over one to three weeks.

They include fever, dry cough (these are usually the first to develop), headache, chills, heavy sweating, scratchy and sore throat, sore trachea, sore chest, and malaise (feeling of being unwell). 

Mycoplasma Pneumonia usually resolves without any serious complications, although they may occur. Cough and weakness may persist for more than one month.

How is it spread?

Mycoplasma Pneumonia infection is spread when an infected person talks, coughs, or sneezes small droplets containing infectious agents into the air. Those nearby may breathe in the droplets.

Infection may be spread by contact with hands, tissues and other articles soiled by infected nose and throat discharges. 

Mycoplasma Pneumonia infection is also spread by direct contact with the infected person.

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How can we prevent it from spreading?

No vaccine is currently available.

Cover a cough or sneeze with a tissue or your arm, not with your hand. Drop used tissues immediately into a rubbish bin, then wash your hands. Always follow good hand hygiene.

Prevention is key when it comes to at-risk groups such as young children who have not been exposed before (particularly through lockdowns), the elderly, and those who are immunocompromised or who have other respiratory illnesses or diseases.

What do I do if I think my little one has it?

If your little one has symptoms of Mycoplasma Pneumonia, take them to the GP.

Seek medical attention if symptoms worsen or if you are concerned for any reason.

A nose and throat swab PCR can help detect atypical bacteria, including mycoplasma. If diagnosed, a GP may prescribe antibiotics and decide how to escalate care if necessary.

Symptoms include include fever, dry cough, headache, chills, heavy sweating, scratchy and sore throat, sore trachea, sore chest, and malaise. Image: iStock

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What is the key takeaway? 

This information isn't necessarily to give you the tools to diagnose your little one yourself, but to recognise the symptoms and advocate for your little one if needed! Always trust your gut - YOU know your child better than anyone. ⁠

🚨 And remember, no matter what the cause, if your little one is having difficulty breathing - call 000.⁠

Know how to respond in an emergency involving your little one. Book a baby + child CPR & First Aid class today.

Sarah Hunstead is a Paediatric Nurse and founder of CPR Kids. She is also the author of  ‘A Life. A Finger. A Pea Up a Nose’ CPR Kids Essential First Aid Guide for Babies and Children.

Originally published as Kid’s cough won’t go away? It could be Mycoplasma Pneumonia