Cases of walking pneumonia, or mycoplasma pneumoniae, have surged in Ontario, with 2024 seeing nearly triple the cases reported in 2019, according to a recent Public Health Ontario (PHO) report. The province has recorded its highest number of cases since tracking began in 2019, with the majority affecting children and teenagers.
Significant Increase in Cases
Out of 4,069 specimens tested this year, 733 cases (18%) have been confirmed positive for walking pneumonia, a significant jump from 137 cases (5.8%) in 2019 and just 23 cases (<1%) in 2023. PHO noted that cases began rising in May, peaking in August with positivity rates nearing 30%.
Walking pneumonia is a mild bacterial infection that can lead to respiratory illness, characterized by symptoms like fever, cough, and fatigue. It is less severe than typical pneumonia but spreads easily through respiratory droplets.
Impact on Children and Teens
The report highlights that children aged 5 to 17 account for 45% of cases, while those under 4 years old represent 25.5%. The highest positivity rates were observed in specific regions, including:
- Ottawa Public Health: 35.7%
- Grey Bruce Health Unit: 34.7%
- Brant County and Niagara Region: 33.3%
In Toronto, the positivity rate reached 23.5%. However, some regions, including Algoma, Northwestern, Sudbury, Thunder Bay, and Timiskaming, reported no cases.
Cyclical Nature of Outbreaks
Walking pneumonia tends to follow cyclical patterns, with outbreaks occurring every three to seven years. Infectious diseases specialist Isaac Bogoch noted that similar trends have been observed globally, including a major outbreak in China last year.
“The bacteria becomes more active in late summer and early fall, contributing to periodic surges in cases,” Bogoch explained.
Advice for the Public
With walking pneumonia spreading through coughs and sneezes, health experts urge vigilance. Symptoms such as persistent cough, shortness of breath, fever, and malaise warrant medical attention.
Bogoch emphasized the importance of seeking care: “It could be a number of infections, including walking pneumonia. Getting checked out is crucial.”
As walking pneumonia cases rise, public health agencies continue to monitor trends while advising Ontarians to stay informed and take precautions to limit the spread of respiratory infections.