Frequently asked questions on Mycoplasma pneumoniae

What is Mycoplasma pneumoniae?

M. pneumoniae is a bacterium that causes acute respiratory illness.

When does M. pneumoniae circulate?

Epidemics usually occur at intervals of about four years and last for about 12 to 15 months. The last epidemic began in late 1997 and continued into early 1999. The next epidemic was expected to begin in autumn 2001 and continue into 2002 in line with the previously observed four-yearly epidemic cycle. Although there was a rise in reported infections during this period it was, however, lower than was expected.

Who is most likely to be affected by M. pneumoniae?

Most laboratory reports are of infection in children aged from 5 to 14 years, and adults aged 30 to 39 years. Very few reports are children under 5 years or adults aged 65 years and over. These data therefore suggest that children acquire M. pneumoniae from other children at school and transmit infection to other children and to family members.

Symptoms and advice

What are the symptoms of M. pneumoniae infection?

M. pneumoniae causes illness ranging in severity from mild respiratory illness (fever,cough, malaise, headache) to severe pneumonia.

How serious is M. pneumoniae?

For a small number of people, mainly the elderly and persons with sickle cell disease, complications of M. pneumoniae infection can be fatal.

Interventions against M. pneumoniae

What interventions are available for M. pneumoniae infection?

M. pneumoniae is susceptible to a range of antibiotics including tetracyclines and erythromycin. There is no vaccine against M. pneumoniae.

HPA activity

What M. pneumoniae information does the HPA make available?

Information about M. pneumoniae activity is included in the weekly Influenza Report posted onto the HPA web site throughout the winter period. Information also appears in the Health Protection Reportduring periods of increased M. pneumoniae activity.

Last reviewed: 10 September 2008