
Mycoplasma Pneumonia Outbreak in Japan!Total Cases Reach 8,714!
What is Mycoplasma?
- Mycoplasma is a bacterium causing respiratory infections.
- Nearly 500 medical facilities in Japan reported 788 cases.
- Mycoplasma pneumoniae commonly leads to pneumonia, especially in children and teens aged 5–15.
- Severe cases may cause complications like hemolytic anemia and encephalitis, with higher risks for the elderly and immunocompromised.
How does Mycoplasma pneumoniae spread?
- Droplet transmission: Mycoplasma spreads through droplets from coughing or sneezing, especially in crowded places. Incubation is 2–3 weeks.
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Direct contact: Touching an infected person’s nasal or throat secretions raises infection risk.
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Indirect contact: Touching contaminated objects and then touching the mouth or nose can also cause infection.
How to prevent Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection:
- Wash hands frequently with soap.
- Wear a mask when going out.
- Keep indoor air well-ventilated to reduce the risk of infection.
- Regularly clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces, such as furniture and toys. Use a 1:99 diluted household bleach solution for disinfection, and rinse clean after 15 to 30 minutes. For metal surfaces, use 70% alcohol to disinfect.
- Avoid crowded places.