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- euronews Article (December 5, 2023):
– “Walking pneumonia” epidemics have been reported in parts of Europe.
– In France, “unusual increases” in mycoplasma pneumoniae respiratory infections were reported with increased circulation from the beginning of autumn and a higher number of cases compared to 2019.
- WHO Advisory (January 7, 2025):
– The World Health Organization (WHO) provided information and advice about trends of acute respiratory infection including human metapneumovirus (hMPV) in the Northernphere.
– The WHO report stated these increases are typically caused by seasonal influenza, respiratory syncytial virus, and other common respiratory viruses.
- AAFP Article:
– Mycoplasma pneumoniae has an incubation period of 1 to 4 weeks.
– Infection presents in patients with gradual onset of upper respiratory infection symptoms (e.g., cough, malaise, fever, sore throat).
- Dr. Martin Ebel emphasized that mycoplasms and chlamydia are currently frequent bacterial pathogens of respiratory infections, some of which take severe courses leading to pneumonia.
– These bacteria are described as “stubborn” and behave similarly to viruses, requiring a specific selection of antibiotics.- Infected individuals often mistake their symptoms for a prolonged cold and may not seek medical attention.- Dr. ebel warns that these pathogens can effect organs other then the lungs, such as the heart, rib cartilage, and pancreas.
– There is no vaccination available for these pathogens.In the winter quarter, there was a notable increase in severe respiratory infections compared to the summer. December saw a particular focus, with around 15 to 20 patients experiencing such severe cases that they required inpatient admission to the clinic. The strategy was to manage patients on an outpatient basis as much as possible, utilizing X-rays and close monitoring. However, there were instances where patients did not initially feel very ill but X-rays revealed shadows indicative of potential issues.
The exact cause of the increased respiratory infections remains uncertain. Dr.Ebel suggests that it could be a lingering effect of the COVID-19 pandemic, noting that many patients are now more susceptible to infections. This heightened sensitivity could be due to continued isolation measures and weakened overall immune defenses.
To combat these infections, Dr. Ebel recommends the same preventive measures used during the pandemic: maintaining hand hygiene, keeping a safe distance, and wearing masks. Additionally, he advises getting vitamin C, fresh air, and engaging in outdoor sports, even in low temperatures. Empathetic gestures are also crucial in patient care.
moreover, diet plays a meaningful role in bolstering the immune system. Consuming various fruits can help ward off colds and infections. For instance, diet can strengthen the immune system by providing essential nutrients.
in recent years, various articles and reports have shed light on emerging trends in respiratory infections, notably the “walking pneumonia” epidemics and unusual increases in mycoplasma pneumoniae respiratory infections reported in parts of Europe.
According to a euronews article from December 5, 2023, “walking pneumonia” epidemics have been documented across parts of Europe.In France, the article highlights “unusual increases” in mycoplasma pneumoniae respiratory infections, noting a higher number of cases compared to 2019, with increased circulation beginning in early autumn.
Complementing these findings, the World Health Organization (WHO) advisory from January 7, 2025, provided insights into the trends of acute respiratory infections in the Northernphere. The WHO report mentioned that these increases are typically caused by seasonal influenza, respiratory syncytial virus, and othre common respiratory viruses.
The AAFP article offers further epidemiological details on mycoplasma pneumoniae, stating that it has an incubation period of 1 to 4 weeks. Infection symptoms generally present with a gradual onset, including upper respiratory infection features such as cough, malaise, fever, and sore throat.
Dr. Martin Ebel, an expert in the field, emphasized the effectiveness of preventive measures initially adopted during the pandemic, such as maintaining hygiene, keeping a safe distance, and wearing masks. He also advises getting vitamin C,engaging in outdoor sports,and consuming fresh fruits to strengthen the immune system. His advice includes empathetic gestures in patient care.
Additionally, diet plays a crucial role in bolstering the immune system.Consuming various fruits can help ward off colds and infections. As a notable example, a research article highlighted that diet can strengthen the immune system by providing essential nutrients.
In sum, understanding the nature of respiratory infections and adopting preventive measures can significantly reduce risks. this overview highlights the importance of dietary and lifestyle adjustments along with traditional preventive strategies.
