- Home
- Parents Home
- Allergy Center
- Asthma Center
- Diabetes Center
- A to Z Dictionary
- Emotions & Behavior
- First Aid & Safety
- Food Allergy Center
- General Health
- Growth & Development
- Flu Center
- Heart Health
- Homework Help Center
- Infections
- Diseases & Conditions
- Nutrition & Fitness Center
- Play & Learn Center
- School & Family Life
- Pregnancy Center
- Newborn Center
- Q&A
- Recipes
- Sports Medicine Center
- Doctors & Hospitals
- Videos
- Para Padres
A to Z: Pneumonia, Mycoplasma
May also be called: Walking Pneumonia; Atypical Pneumonia
Mycoplasma pneumonia (also called walking pneumonia or atypical pneumonia) is a mild lung infection caused by a bacteria called mycoplasma.
More to Know
Mycoplasma pneumonia is a less serious form of the lung infection pneumonia, and causes cold-like symptoms in addition to a low-grade fever and a hacking cough. It spreads through contact with an infected person and can last 3–4 weeks.
Mycoplasma pneumonia usually develops gradually and is treated with antibiotics. Many people who have it feel well enough to participate in everyday activities.
Keep in Mind
Mycoplasma pneumonia is common in school-age and older kids. Occasionally it occurs in those younger than 5. Symptoms might include a bothersome and long-lasting cough (this is most common), fatigue, sore throat, hoarseness, low-grade fever, headache, loss of appetite, chest pain, and, less commonly, a bumpy red skin rash.
All A to Z dictionary entries are regularly reviewed by KidsHealth medical experts.
Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor.
© 1995- The Nemours Foundation. KidsHealth® is a registered trademark of The Nemours Foundation. All rights reserved.
Images sourced by The Nemours Foundation and Getty Images.