Seven samples at AIIMS Delhi +ve for M pneumoniae

AIIMS Delhi detects Mycoplasma pneumoniae, bacteria causing respiratory illness in children in China, through PCR and IgM Elisa tests. The positivity rate of PCR and IgM Elisa tests was 3% and 16% respectively. Mycoplasma pneumoniae causes 15-20% of community acquired pneumonia, also known as ‘walking pneumonia’. Surveillance for detection of Mycoplasma pneumonia needs to be expanded in India. The Lancet report suggests monitoring the re-emergence and predicting its progression, severity, and potential increase in severe cases and extrapulmonary manifestations. Infections occur year-round.