Surge in Walking Pneumonia Cases Hits Western New York: What You Need to Know

Rise in Walking Pneumonia Cases in Western New York

Buffalo, N.Y. — There is a significant increase in walking pneumonia cases across the United States, affecting Western New York as well.

Key Points from the CDC:

• Symptoms of walking pneumonia include fever, sore throat, and persistent cough.
• More than 80% of those affected see it as a mild condition.
• The highest number of cases is in children aged one to four.

Dr. Thomas Russo, Chief of Infectious Diseases at the University at Buffalo Jacobs School of Medicine, explains that a bacterium called Mycoplasma pneumoniae is a common cause of walking pneumonia. This infection spreads easily among those who interact with others.

Dr. Russo is monitoring the situation closely. He anticipates a rise in COVID-19 and flu cases in the coming weeks. Although walking pneumonia is generally mild, a small number of individuals may face serious complications.

Dr. Kathleen Grisanti from Pediatrics & Adolescent Urgent Care in Western New York reports an uptick in cases, especially among children presenting with cough and fever. Health experts believe the aftermath of the COVID pandemic contributes to this rise. Many children did not interact much during the pandemic and missed infections like Mycoplasma pneumoniae, making them more susceptible now.

To reduce the spread of walking pneumonia, doctors recommend wearing masks, practicing social distancing, and using proper cough etiquette, such as coughing into an elbow. Vaccinations can also help.

For more information about walking pneumonia, refer to health professionals in the video linked above.