Record High Mycoplasma Pneumoniae Infections Reported in Japan

According to the National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Japan has recorded the highest number of Mycoplasma pneumoniae infections ever reported, with 1,363 confirmed cases during the week of November 11 to 17. This figure translates to an average of approximately 2.84 cases per designated medical facility across around 500 institutions in the country.

The data indicates that current cases have exceeded previous highs set in 2016, with early October having already surpassed that year's record. Fukui Prefecture reported the highest incidence rate, recording about 8.83 cases per facility, followed by Aomori and Ibaraki, with rates of 5.00 and 4.92 respectively.

Mycoplasma pneumoniae infections are caused by bacteria and typically present symptoms such as fever and a persistent cough. These infections are more common in the fall and winter months and are transmitted through respiratory droplets and close contact. While most individuals experience gradual recovery, some may see their symptoms worsen.

Interestingly, there has been a notable decrease in these infections from 2020 to 2023, likely attributed to the public's heightened health measures during the coronavirus pandemic, including the use of face masks to mitigate the spread of respiratory illnesses.