Walking Pneumonia

Facts for Prelims

Walking Pneumonia

News: Recently, a mysterious influenza-like illness termed as Walking Pneumonia has gripped school children in China.

About:
• Walking pneumonia, or atypical pneumonia, is a less severe form of pneumonia primarily caused by bacteria, such as Mycoplasma pneumoniae.
• Termed “walking” pneumonia due to its mild symptoms, allowing individuals to continue daily activities without requiring hospitalization or bed rest.
• It is more prevalent among children, especially those aged 5 to 15, often transmitted in close-contact settings like schools.
• It is spread through airborne droplets from coughing, sneezing, or talking, emphasizing the role of close contact in infection transmission.
• Symptoms are generally mild and may include a persistent cough, fever, sore throat, headache, runny nose, ear pain, and occasional chest discomfort from coughing.
• Treatment involves antibiotics to target the specific bacteria causing the infection, aiding in a quicker recovery.