NHK has learned the number of Mycoplasma pneumonia cases is surging in Japan with the weekly number of patients per medical institution hitting an all-time high.
Mycoplasma pneumonia is a respiratory infection caused by bacteria. It spreads through droplets and physical contact, and leads to such symptoms as fever, fatigue and persistent coughing. Children are more likely to get infected.
Some patients suffering from severe pneumonia symptoms or weakness caused by fever may require hospitalization. In rare cases, it can lead to conditions such as encephalitis, a brain inflammation.
Health officials told NHK that the number of Mycoplasma pneumonia patients has been gradually rising in Japan since around June.
The officials said that during the seven days leading up to September 29, an average of 1.64 cases per institution were reported.
The figure was higher than 1.61 cases reported during a major outbreak in October 2016. This year’s number was also the highest since data-taking began in 1999.
The officials said there could be an increase in patients as Mycoplasma pneumonia tends to surge from fall to winter.
The health ministry warns that in many cases, patients have become infected at school and at home. It is urging people to wash their hands with soap and wear face masks if they have a cough.