UNITED STATES – The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is alerting the nation to a surge in respiratory infections among children this fall. Cases of RSV and pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough, have been notably higher than in previous years.
Walking pneumonia is also increasing, especially among pre-school aged children. Dr. Frank Esper from Cleveland Clinic Children’s discussed the current wave of infections. “This wave began a little earlier and it is much, much higher than what we expect from previous years,” he said.
Walking pneumonia, a milder lung infection, presents symptoms that may include a persistent cough, low fever, and muscle aches. Dr. Esper explained that the infection is typically caused by various bacteria, with Mycoplasma being the most common. Traditional antibiotics like penicillin and amoxicillin are not effective against walking pneumonia, requiring alternative treatment methods.
“That antibiotic most commonly is a Zithromycin also known as a Z pack by many people out in the community and that, that actually does treat walking pneumonia very well,” stated Dr. Esper. He shared advice on slowing down the spread of illnesses: covering coughs and sneezes, regular handwashing, and staying home when sick.
“Chicken soup yourself back up to good health and then go out afterwards,” he added.
Although diagnostic tests are available to determine if a patient has walking pneumonia, Dr. Frank Esper cautioned that they are costly and usually reserved for severely ill patients.
The current situation highlights the importance of taking preventive measures to protect children’s health, particularly during this surge of respiratory infections.
