Japan is seeing a sharp rise in mycoplasma pneumonia cases, with an average of 2.84 patients per medical institution reported nationwide for the week ending November 17, according to the National Institute of Infectious Diseases. This represents a significant increase from previous weeks and is the highest recorded figure since the tracking system was introduced.
Mycoplasma pneumonia, a bacterial infection commonly affecting children, spreads through respiratory droplets or contact. Symptoms include a persistent cough, fever, fatigue, and headaches. While most cases resolve without severe complications, some can progress to serious pneumonia requiring hospitalization.
Fukui Prefecture recorded the highest regional average, with 8.83 cases per medical institution, followed by Aomori (5.0), Kyoto (4.71), and Hokkaido (4.59). Major cities like Tokyo and Osaka also reported elevated rates of 4.32 and 3.17, respectively, as reported by Xinhua News Agency.
Public health authorities are advising citizens to take preventive measures, including wearing masks, practicing good hand hygiene, and consulting a doctor if symptoms persist.
