Mycoplasma pneumonia began to spread widely since last autumn and continues to spread throughout the winter. With the onset of winter, temperatures plummet, and influenza, adenovirus, and respiratory syncytial virus diseases have emerged, exacerbating the spread of respiratory diseases, especially among children. In recent months, pediatric hospitals across the country have been overcrowded almost daily. This year is characterized by respiratory diseases showing multiple virus infections at the same time.
How can multiple respiratory pathogens be distinguished?
In today's medical community, microbial infections and the diseases they cause have become one of the major challenges to human health. Among the many microorganisms, respiratory tract infections caused by mycoplasma, especially Mycoplasma pneumoniae, have attracted much attention. Due to the lack of a cell wall, the organism is ineffective against traditional antibiotics that target the cell wall, such as penicillin. Its unique physiology allows it to attach directly to human airway cells, causing symptoms such as violent coughing. Treatment with a macrolide such as roxithromycin or azithromycin is recommended.
On the other hand, influenza, commonly known as influenza, is dominated by influenza A and B viruses and presents with systemic symptoms such as high fever, chills, and myalgia. Unlike mycoplasma infection, treatment of influenza focuses on the use of antiviral drugs such as mabaloxavir and oseltamivir phosphate and emphasizes infection prevention through annual vaccination.
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection is a common respiratory illness in infants and young children characterized by significant wheezing that causes airway obstruction. Due to the lack of specific drugs for RSV, treatment relies primarily on symptomatic relief.
Adenovirus infection, on the other hand, is more common in children and presents with symptoms such as persistent high fever and may affect multiple organ systems. Similarly, treatment of adenovirus infection is primarily symptomatic.
The medical community has developed treatment strategies for respiratory tract infections caused by these different types of pathogens, from specific antibiotics to antivirals to preventive vaccinations, reflecting a diverse range of treatments against microbial infections. Importantly, as pathogen resistance continues to change, ongoing research and updating of treatment strategies will be key to protecting public health.
How can parents help their babies prevent it properly?
In the current season, children who have already suffered from a disease once are immune to all. In fact, with the arrival of the high incidence of viral infection, parents should pay more attention to protective measures to avoid further infection of children.
Regarding vaccination, some parents reported that children may still get the flu even after vaccination. This reflects a misconception about the protective power of vaccines. In fact, while vaccines do not guarantee absolute protection, vaccination can significantly reduce the risk of severe illness and alleviate children's suffering. It is important to know that it takes about two weeks to form immunity. In addition, revaccination is still necessary even if the child is already ill, as the influenza virus is volatile and the vaccine provides broader protection.
Enhancing personal hygiene, such as frequent hand washing, is an effective means of preventing most respiratory diseases. Children should wash their hands after touching public objects, before eating, after using the toilet, and after touching respiratory secretions.
Ensure that the home environment is ventilated and keep the indoor air fresh by opening windows regularly to create a healthy and comfortable living environment for children.
Limit children's contact, especially close contact, with people with respiratory infections to reduce the risk of infection.
Cultivate good personal hygiene in children, avoid touching their eyes, nose and mouth with their hands, and cover coughs or sneezes with a tissue or elbow. Regularly clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces by children, such as toys, tables and doorknobs.
Strengthening immunity is also key, and building a strong immune system for children through regular routines, adequate sleep, a balanced diet and moderate exercise.