Cases of mycoplasma pneumonia, also known as walking pneumonia, have been increasing across the nation, with Louisiana experiencing one of the largest spikes, according to the CDC. Region 6, including Louisiana, Texas, Arkansas, New Mexico, and Oklahoma, has seen high levels of the infection. At the beginning of November, mycoplasma pneumonia accounted for 7% of all pneumonia-related emergency visits among children, compared to less than 1% typically. Louisiana hospitals have also observed more severe pneumonia cases in children than in previous years.
The increase in pneumonia cases comes as other respiratory illnesses, such as influenza and RSV, are also on the rise. RSV levels in Louisiana are significantly higher than the national rate. While COVID-19 levels remain low, the advice for parents to limit illness includes washing hands frequently and avoiding the spread of germs to others. The spike in pneumonia cases, especially among younger children, is concerning for healthcare professionals who are monitoring the situation closely.
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