2024-01-18 08:00:00
After China, the bacterial infection is actively circulating in our territory. The authorities have recorded an “unusual” increase in cases since the summer of 2023. Situation, epidemic risk, symptoms and signs of severity… Here is what you need to know about Mycoplasma pneumoniae.
Since November, China is experiencing an increase in cases of pneumonia Mycoplasma pneumoniae. The bacteria is also present in France where it circulates actively. “Since the end of summer, the number of respiratory infections caused by Mycoplasma pneumoniae has been increasing in France”warned last November the High Authority of Health. The childrenas well as adults under 40are often affected.
Bacterial infection is not not a new disease, unlike Covid-19. In reality, cases have been increasing for several months probably due to “the conjunction between an epidemic cycle and the lifting of control measures after the Covid-19 pandemic”estimates the French authority.
Mycoplasma pneumoniae : symptoms
The bacteria M. pneumoniae is transmitted mainly by dropletswith an estimated incubation between 1 and 3 weeks.
It causes in the infected person a series of symptoms similar to winter illnesses: mild fever, cough, headache, faintness. Some cases present dermatological or neurological signs. “In the majority of cases, the symptoms are benign”reassures for his part Public health France.
Treatment: which antibiotics?
Oui. M. pneumoniae being a bacteria, the infection is treated with antibiotic therapy. Two antibiotic treatmentsazithromycin or clarithromycin, are usually prescribed by the doctor. “Antibiotic therapy must be effective within 48 to 72 hours. If this is not the case, the patient’s condition should be re-evaluated”warns the HAS.
Is there an epidemic in France?
Currently, France is experiencing an epidemic from pneumonia to Mycoplasma pneumoniae. “All the elements collected to date show increased circulation of this bacteria in France since the beginning of autumn with a higher number of cases than in 2019 and 2022 at the same period, reflecting an epidemic situation”informs the body responsible for monitoring the cases.
However, the situation is not not alarming. Epidemics are frequent. “Epidemic peaks are observed cyclically every 3 to 7 years. In Europe, several countries experienced epidemics over the period 2015–2017”. At present, other countries are experiencing the same situation : Sweden, the Netherlands and Ireland.
Just like other germs, the bacteria had remained discreet for 3 years – the time of the Covid-19 pandemic – in particular thanks to barrier gestures.
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