The article was professionally consulted by Nguyen Huy Nhat MSc,MD - Respiratory Specialist - Department of Outpatient & Internal Medicine - Vinmec Da Nang International General Hospital.
Mycoplasma bacteria are commonly found on the mucous membranes of the mouth, throat, and genital tract in both men and women. When these bacteria multiply excessively, they can cause infections, most notably Mycoplasma pneumonia.
1. What Are Mycoplasma Bacteria?
Mycoplasma bacteria were first discovered in 1898 in cattle with pneumonia. These microorganisms are exceptionally small, measuring only 0.15–0.3 micrometers, making them invisible under conventional light microscopes. They commonly inhabit the mucous membranes of the mouth, throat, and genital tract. Under favorable conditions, when their numbers multiply rapidly, Mycoplasma bacteria can cause various diseases.
Currently, around 17 species of Mycoplasma are known to cause infections in humans, with four types accounting for the majority of common illnesses. Among these, Mycoplasma pneumoniae is of particular concern, as it is responsible for 10–30% of cases of community-acquired pneumonia. Mycoplasma pneumoniae primarily causes upper respiratory tract infections and atypical pneumonia. Although the disease can affect individuals of all ages, it is more commonly seen in children. Outbreaks of pneumonia caused by Mycoplasma pneumoniae tend to occur in schools, residential complexes, and workplaces, particularly during the seasonal transition from late summer to autumn.
2. Symptoms of Mycoplasma pneumoniae Infection
When Mycoplasma pneumoniae enters the body, the incubation period typically lasts around 2 to 3 weeks. Following this period, the infection begins to present with the following symptoms:
- Initial Symptoms: At the onset, patients primarily experience headaches, nasal congestion, wheezing, sore throat, fatigue, and fever. These nonspecific symptoms often lead to confusion with common colds or influenza.
- In Adults: Fever often exceeds 39°C and is accompanied by chills, headaches, and frequent coughing. The cough may be dry or accompanied by sputum that is typically white.
- In Children: The initial symptoms in children usually include fever and coughing. Fever tends to be mild to moderate, generally below 39°C. The most prominent symptom is persistent, prolonged coughing. Initially dry, the cough eventually becomes productive with sputum. This persistent coughing can last 3 to 4 weeks, prompting many parents to seek medical attention. In addition to coughing and fever, children may also present with nasal discharge, irritability, loss of appetite, and diarrhea.
3. Transmission route of Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia
Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia is transmitted from person to person through respiratory droplets. When an infected person sneezes or coughs, respiratory secretions containing the bacteria are released into the air. If someone inhales these droplets, they can become infected. Due to the simple transmission mechanism, this infection spreads easily in close-knit communities such as families, workplaces, and schools.
The severity of the illness depends on the individual's immune system. People with weakened immune systems are at a higher risk of contracting Mycoplasma infection compared to those with a strong immune defense. Factors like cigarette smoke, polluted air, and dust environments, while not directly causing Mycoplasma infection, can exacerbate symptoms, prolonging the coughing and recovery time. Therefore, individuals with Mycoplasma pneumonia should ensure they live in a clean, pollution-free environment.
Preventive measures should include boosting the body’s immunity, especially during seasonal transitions or when there is an outbreak in the area. It's important to minimize contact with infected individuals, maintain a clean living environment, and avoid exposure to smoke and pollution.
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