Mycoplasma pneumoniae infections re-emerge after COVID-19 lull

CDC surveillance data show an increase in Mycoplasma pneumoniae infections in the U.S. beginning in fall 2023, although below prepandemic levels. M. pneumoniae infections—a common cause of respiratory infections, particularly in school-aged children—had decreased globally during the COVID-19 pandemic. Providers should consider M. pneumoniae during fall and winter respiratory illness seasons, particularly as severe infections can lead to pneumonia. Macrolides remain the first-line treatment for these infections in the U.S.