Is mycoplasma infection contagious?

Written by Li Tao
Pulmonology
Updated on September 13, 2024
00:00
00:00

Usually, when we talk about mycoplasma infection, we are mainly referring to mycoplasma pneumonia, an inflammation caused by the infection of the lung tissue and bronchi by mycoplasma. This condition is collectively known as mycoplasma pneumonia. Mycoplasma pneumonia often starts slowly. Some people may experience an irritating cough, producing a small amount of white, sticky phlegm, along with fever, headaches, and even muscle soreness throughout the body in some cases. In most cases, mycoplasma pneumonia can be cured; the body’s immune system can overcome it. However, the severity may increase when the body’s immune functions are impaired. Moreover, mycoplasma pneumonia is contagious. If an infection is confirmed, isolation is necessary, and attention should be given to ventilating and disinfecting the room.

Other Voices

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Han Shun Li
Pulmonology
43sec home-news-image

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.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Li Jian Wu
Pulmonology
54sec home-news-image

Does a mycoplasma infection cause a contagious cough?

Cough symptoms caused by mycoplasma infection are indeed contagious. They can be transmitted through breathing, coughing, and sneezing as these actions release mycoplasma pathogens into the air. These pathogens can then spread to others via airborne droplets. Therefore, it is recommended to isolate the affected individual, wear masks for protection, and, upon diagnosis, promptly choose to administer macrolide antibiotics orally or intravenously to eliminate the mycoplasma pathogens. Additionally, cough suppressants should be used according to the nature of the cough for symptomatic treatment. It is also advised to drink plenty of water, rest adequately, measure body temperature twice daily, avoid spicy and overly greasy foods, and ensure sufficient quality sleep. (Medication should be used under the guidance of a doctor, according to the specific situation.)

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Peng Miao Yun
Internal Medicine
34sec home-news-image

Characteristics of Cough Symptoms in Mycoplasma Infection

Mycoplasma infection cough is a prominent symptom characterized by an incubation period. Dry cough appears two to three days later, followed by episodes of coughing. Cough may be accompanied by a small amount of mucus, or viscous secretions, sometimes with streaks of blood. The cough generally lasts for a long time, persisting for one to two weeks, and if not well managed, it can continue for about a month. Severe cough can be treated symptomatically with asthma-relieving and cough-suppressing medications.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Han Shun Li
Pulmonology
36sec home-news-image

Is mycoplasma infection easy to cure?

After Mycoplasma infects the human body, it often causes mycoplasma pneumonia. Once diagnosed with mycoplasma pneumonia, many patients worry about the possibility of not being cured. So, is mycoplasma infection easy to cure? Generally speaking, mycoplasma infection is self-limiting, meaning that most patients can recover without medication. Therefore, there is no need to worry too much after a mycoplasma infection. Moreover, if treated with sensitive antibiotics, the duration of the mycoplasma infection will be significantly shortened.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Li Jian Wu
Pulmonology
57sec home-news-image

How is mycoplasma infection detected?

Mycoplasma belongs to a type of pathogen. If a person is infected with this mycoplasma, clinical detection methods typically involve blood tests, which can confirm the presence of this pathogen in the body. Culture of secretions can also detect this pathogen. Once infection is confirmed, clinically, macrolide antibiotics are chosen for anti-inflammatory treatment. Patients with mild symptoms can take azithromycin or clarithromycin orally. If the disease duration is prolonged and oral medication is not effectively alleviating symptoms, intravenous infusions of erythromycin or azithromycin can be administered for anti-inflammatory treatment. After one course of treatment, timely follow-up is necessary to assess the recovery progress of the disease. (Medication should be used under the guidance of a doctor based on specific circumstances.)