Tokyo, November 27 (IANS). Mycoplasma pneumonia cases are increasing in Japan. According to the National Institute of Infectious Diseases, an average of 2.84 patients were found in medical institutions across the country during the week ending November 17.
The figure shows an increase in cases compared to previous weeks. This is the highest figure since the current tracking system began.
Mycoplasma pneumonia is a bacterial infection. This infection is mostly seen in children. It spreads through respiratory droplets or through close contact. Among its symptoms, patients experience problems like persistent cough, fever, fatigue and headache. Many cases heal without serious complications. At the same time, some cases can turn into severe pneumonia, which may require hospitalization of the patient.
Fukui Prefecture reported the highest regional average with 8.83 cases per medical institution. It was followed by Aomori (5.0), Kyoto (4.71) and Hokkaido (4.59).
Major cities like Tokyo and Osaka also recorded high rates of 4.32 and 3.17 respectively, Xinhua news agency reported.
Public health officials are urging citizens to take preventive measures. Patients have been advised to wear masks, take care of hygiene and consult doctors.
Mycoplasma pneumoniae is one of the most commonly identified bacterial pathogens of all humans. There are more than 200 species of this virus.
–IANS
MKS/AKJ
