How is Mycoplasma pneumoniae spread?

Since Mycoplasma pneumoniae can survive independently outside the body, its transmission methods include direct contact, indirect contact, fecal-oral route, and air aerosol, in addition to the main droplet transmission. The incubation period after exposure to Mycoplasma pneumoniae is 1 to 3 weeks, and the patient is contagious from the incubation period to several weeks of symptom relief.

Respiratory droplet transmission

If a child is accidentally infected with Mycoplasma pneumoniae, then when he coughs, sneezes or talks, Mycoplasma pneumoniae will fly into the air along with respiratory droplets. These droplets are like dandelion seeds, which can float in the air and then land in other people's noses, mouths or eyes. Once landed, Mycoplasma pneumoniae will quietly enter the new "territory" and start to make trouble in the new host. In this way, Mycoplasma pneumoniae can be transmitted from person to person during close contact between people. Therefore, in environments where people gather, such as families, communities, and schools, Mycoplasma pneumoniae is highly contagious and is often prone to clustered infections. Especially in family environments, the cumulative incidence rate is close to 90%.

Direct contact transmission

Mycoplasma pneumoniae can also be transmitted through direct contact, such as handshakes, hugs, etc., or direct contact with the patient's secretions, such as sputum, nasal mucus, etc.
Indirect contact transmission

If we come into contact with the patient's clothing, toys, tableware and other items, we may also be infected through indirect contact, but the probability of this type of infection is lower.

Fecal-oral route of transmission

Mycoplasma pneumoniae can be excreted from the body through feces. If feces contaminate food or water, it will re-enter the human body through food, water or other routes, causing infection. It may occur in some cases, but it is not the main mode of transmission.

Airborne aerosol transmission

In confined spaces, Mycoplasma pneumoniae can be spread through tiny particles in the air, which can remain suspended in the air for a long time and be inhaled by others, causing infection.
In short, there are many ways for Mycoplasma pneumoniae to spread. Understanding these transmission routes can help us take effective preventive measures, such as washing hands frequently, wearing masks, maintaining social distance, developing good cough etiquette, and not mixing personal items in groups or at home, all of which can help reduce the risk of infection. At the same time, keeping indoor air circulating and avoiding crowded places can also help reduce the risk of infection.

(Guo Chunxia, ​​Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region Maternal and Child Health Hospital)