Immense danger: Doctors warn of pneumonia wave in Hesse!

Immense danger: Doctors warn of pneumonia wave in Hesse!

doctors in Germany raise the alarm: In Hesse in particular, a wave of pneumonia is warned, which are caused by the bacteria mycoplasms and chlamydia. Dr. Martin Ebel, general practitioner in Bad Hersfeld, emphasizes the persistence and serious health risks of these pathogens. The number of pulmonary inflammation in his practice has doubled to 40 to 50 cases in the current winter quarter. In December, 15 to 20 patients were so seriously ill that inpatient treatment was necessary, such as Fuldaer Zeitung reported.

mycoplasms are the most common pathogen of bacterial pneumonia, especially in school children and adolescents. The symptoms of mycoplasm infection include slight fever, dry cough and sore throat, whereby the disease often runs inconspicuously. "Infected people often recognize too late that they are seriously ill," said Dr. Ebel. It is particularly worrying that long -lasting symptoms such as cough are often not clarified by a doctor, even though they could indicate a serious illness.

causes and risks

The transmission of these bacteria takes place via droplets, and the incubation period is two to four weeks. It is important to note that the risk of infection is high, whereby children are the most common group. Studies show that the clinical expression of respiratory infections triggered by mycoplasms can range from asymptomatic to serious complications such as encephalitis. Medical Tribune describes up to 10 percent of the cases.

The Covid 19 pandemic has obviously played a role in the spread of these bacteria. The distribution was restricted during the strict measures. Since autumn 2023, however, the number of infection has increased again, which Dr. Ebel attributes to a weakening of the immune response due to social isolation. The current wave is not due to more aggressive pathogens, but to a high number of infections and an increase in respiratory diseases.

diagnosis and treatment

The diagnosis of mycoplasm infection can be challenging because many carriers are asymptomatic. When suspected of mycoplasm pneumonia, the conventional X-ray of the thorax is recommended, whereby reticulo-nodular changes can be seen. Laboratory diagnostics often show a slightly increased number of leukocytes and a moderately increased CRP, but no increased procalcitonin concentration. In the event of a difficult course, neurological disorders can also occur that can lead to permanent failures.

Treatment is a challenge because usual antibiotics such as amoxicillin are ineffective against mycoplasms. Macrolids, tetracycline or fluorchinolone are used for severe courses. As resistance to macrolide antibiotics increase, especially in Asia, it is important to check the antibiotic sensitivity of the pathogens. In Switzerland, the resistance rate before pandemic was around 10 %.

prevention and recommendations

In order to prevent a respiratory infection, doctors recommend simple measures such as regular hand washing, hygiene, distance and wearing masks in public. In addition, it is advisable to strengthen the immune system, vitamins, fresh air, outdoor sports and a balanced diet with fruit. According to Daily indicatories are rare due to mycoplasm bacteria, but the potential risks for endangered groups, including older people and people weakened immune system, considerable.