Walking Pneumonia (Mycoplasma Pneumonia): What Parents Need to Know

Walking pneumonia, caused by Mycoplasma pneumoniae, is a milder form of pneumonia that primarily affects children and young adults. While less severe than traditional pneumonia, it can still cause discomfort and disruption in daily life. Today, we'll share insights about walking pneumonia, its symptoms, treatment, and prevention to help keep your family healthy.

What is Walking Pneumonia?
Walking pneumonia is a respiratory infection caused by bacteria, most commonly Mycoplasma pneumoniae. Unlike more severe pneumonia, walking pneumonia rarely requires hospitalization, and most people can continue with daily activities—hence the term “walking.”

This condition is contagious, spreading through respiratory droplets when someone coughs or sneezes. Schools, daycares, and crowded places are common environments for outbreaks.

Symptoms of Walking Pneumonia
The symptoms can mimic a cold or flu and often develop gradually, including:

• Persistent, dry cough

• Low-grade fever

• Sore throat

• Fatigue or weakness

• Headache

• Chest discomfort during deep breathing or coughing

• Mild chills or body aches

Because symptoms overlap with other illnesses, walking pneumonia may be mistaken for a prolonged cold.

Should Parents Be Concerned?
While walking pneumonia is generally mild, it can still cause significant discomfort, especially in children. Prolonged symptoms can disrupt school attendance, sports activities, and sleep. Additionally, untreated cases may lead to complications like bronchitis or worsening of asthma symptoms.

Diagnosis and Treatment
If your child shows symptoms of walking pneumonia, consult a healthcare provider. Diagnosis often involves a physical exam, listening to the lungs, and occasionally a chest X-ray or nasal swab.

Treatment typically includes:

• Antibiotics:Mycoplasma pneumoniae responds well to specific antibiotics like azithromycin.

• Supportive Care: Encourage hydration, rest, and symptomatic treatment.

Most children recover fully within 7-10 days with treatment, but a lingering cough may persist for a few weeks.

**Treatment plans are individualized and tailored to each patient's current symptoms and physical condition.

Prevention Tips
To reduce the risk of walking pneumonia:

1. Practice Good Hygiene: Encourage regular handwashing with soap and water.

2. Cover Coughs and Sneezes: Teach your child to use tissues or their elbow to block droplets.

3. Avoid Sharing Utensils: Shared cups or utensils can spread bacteria.

4. Keep Immune Systems Strong: Balanced nutrition, adequate sleep, and physical activity all support a healthy immune system.

5. Stay Home When Sick: If your child has a fever or persistent cough, keeping them home from school can prevent spreading the illness to others.

When to Visit Next Generation Pediatric Urgent Care
If your child is experiencing prolonged symptoms, difficulty breathing, or worsening fatigue, don’t hesitate to visit us. At Next Generation Pediatric Urgent Care, we’re open 7 days a week from 11 AM to 10 PM and we’re open extended hours on Sundays 9 AM to 10 PM to provide convenient care for your family. No appointments necessary!

Walking pneumonia may be mild, but it’s essential to address symptoms early to avoid complications. Our team is here to diagnose, treat, and guide your family back to health.

We're here to support you every step of the way.

Metin Yuksel, MSN, BSN, RN, FNP-C

Provider & Nursing Coordinator