Mycoplasma pneumonia, commonly referred to as “walking pneumonia,” has seen a significant increase in cases in children across Tennessee, particularly in the Johnson City region. According to Ballad Health’s Chief Infection Prevention Officer Jamie Swift, this strain of the illness is more common than previously thought and can be treated with antibiotics.
Symptoms include a severe cough, fever, and other respiratory issues. Swift emphasizes the importance of getting tested and knowing how to properly treat the condition. Since children are most affected, local schools are taking preventive measures to minimize the spread of illness.
At St. Anne Catholic School, Principal Anne Johnson shared their strategies for preventing the spread of germs. The school’s daily routine includes wiping down desks, washing hands frequently, using hand sanitizer stations, and implementing a sanitizing system called “the ghost buster.” These measures aim to keep surfaces clean, especially in areas where students are not present.
Health leaders stress that prevention is key, encouraging basic measures such as washing your hands, staying home if sick, covering coughs, and wearing masks when necessary. As Tennessee enters viral respiratory season, Swift recommends discussing vaccinations with healthcare providers to ensure protection against Mycoplasma pneumonia and other illnesses.
Source: https://wcyb.com/news/local/mycoplasma-pneumonia-cases-rise-in-kids-locally-health-official-warns