Is Mycoplasma infection in children contagious?

Written by Yan Xin Liang
Pediatrics
Updated on September 27, 2024
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Is mycoplasma infection in children contagious? Mycoplasma infection is a type of respiratory pathogen. It is generally transmitted through coughing and sneezing, directly via the upper respiratory tract, and can be contagious through close contact at short distances. Therefore, mycoplasma is contagious and has infectious properties. However, it is not classified as a communicable disease and its infectiousness is relatively weak compared to others. It is mainly transmitted through the respiratory tract, and everyday activities such as drinking and eating do not spread the infection.

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Characteristics of Fever from Mycoplasma Infection

The characteristics of fever due to mycoplasma infection, which often results from infections of the respiratory and reproductive tracts, typically manifest as mild to moderate fevers. In some infants and young children, due to imperfect temperature regulation, high fevers may occur. Blood tests generally show normal white blood cell counts. Imaging can reveal lung infections, and tests for mycoplasma pneumonia antibodies are positive. The cough commonly associated with mycoplasma infections is usually an irritating, dry cough, with little sputum production.

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What should I do if I have a fever caused by a mycoplasma infection?

Fever symptoms caused by mycoplasma infection require corresponding treatment measures based on the degree of fever. First, it is advised to drink plenty of water and rest. If the body temperature is above 37 degrees Celsius but below 38 degrees, this is considered a mild fever. You can wipe areas such as the palms, soles, neck, and chest with warm water or approximately 30% alcohol; however, alcohol should not be used for children. If the body temperature exceeds 38 degrees Celsius, fever-reducing medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can be taken. The main principle is to treat the mycoplasma infection. (Medication should be used under the guidance of a doctor.)

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What are the symptoms of mycoplasma infection?

Mycoplasma infection is relatively common in clinical settings. After infecting the lungs, mycoplasma often causes pneumonia and mycoplasma pneumonia. What symptoms appear? Common symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, and muscle pain. Some patients may also experience abdominal discomfort, such as diarrhea. If an X-ray is taken, it is possible to see patchy shadows of varying sizes in the lungs. After a mycoplasma infection, in most cases, it can improve even without medication. However, medication can shorten the course of the disease, alleviate symptoms, and reduce the patient's discomfort. Therefore, in general, medical treatment is advocated.

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Is cephalosporin effective for mycoplasma infection?

If it is a simple infection by this type of pathogen, generally, there is no direct effect or efficacy. If it is accompanied by other bacteria or other viral infections, there may be a certain auxiliary therapeutic effect. For simple mycoplasma infections, the choice generally falls on macrolide antibiotics or conducting drug sensitivity tests to select antibiotics to control the infection based on the test results. Mycoplasma infections themselves have a relatively long course, so during treatment, medications should be used according to the treatment course, and it’s advised to drink plenty of water and rest adequately. A re-examination one week after stopping the medication can reveal the extent of recovery from the disease. (Medication should be used under the guidance of a doctor)

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Does a mycoplasma infection require infusion?

Mycoplasma infection often causes pneumonia, including mycoplasma pneumonia. Patients commonly experience symptoms such as fever and cough. Regarding whether infusion is necessary after mycoplasma infection, it is not certain. In many cases, mycoplasma infections can heal on their own, and recovery can occur even without medication. If medication is used, macrolides and fluoroquinolones are generally chosen. Normally, oral administration is sufficient to achieve therapeutic goals. However, if the lesions are severe and the patient has difficulty taking medication orally, infusion may also be considered as a treatment method.