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Published on: February 24, 2023
Impact of weather factors on Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia
D Onozuka1, M Hashizume, A Hagihara
1Department of Planning Information and Administration, Fukuoka Institute of Health and Environmental Sciences, Dazaifu-shi, Fukuoka, Japan. onozuka@fihes.pref.fukuoka.jp
Background:
Although multiple combinations of weather factors may contribute to an increased incidence of Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia, few studies have investigated the association between weather factors and cases of M pneumoniae pneumonia.
Methods:
Data on cases of M pneumoniae pneumonia and weather factors in Fukuoka, Japan from 1999 to 2007 were obtained and time-series analysis was used to assess the effects of weather variables on M pneumoniae pneumonia cases, adjusting for confounding factors. A total of 13 056 M pneumoniae pneumonia cases were reported during the 9-year study period, of which 12 234 (93.7%) were under 15 years of age.
Results:
The weekly number of M pneumoniae pneumonia cases increased by 16.9% (95% CI 11.3% to 22.8%) for every 1 degrees C increase in the average temperature and by 4.1% (95% CI 2.7% to 5.5%) for every 1% increase in relative humidity.
Conclusions:
From 1999 to 2007, cases of M pneumoniae pneumonia increased significantly with increased average temperature and relative humidity in Fukuoka, Japan.
Insights
Rising temperatures and humidity are linked to more Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia cases, particularly in children. This study highlights the impact of weather on respiratory infections.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Epidemiology
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Few studies have explored the connection between weather conditions and Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia.
- Understanding these associations is crucial for public health interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between weather factors and Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia incidence.
- To quantify the impact of temperature and humidity on pneumonia cases.
Main Methods:
- Time-series analysis of M. pneumoniae pneumonia cases and weather data in Fukuoka, Japan (1999-2007).
- Adjusted for confounding factors to isolate the effects of weather variables.
- Included 13,056 reported cases, with 93.7% in individuals under 15.
Main Results:
- A 1°C increase in average temperature correlated with a 16.9% rise in weekly pneumonia cases.
- A 1% increase in relative humidity was associated with a 4.1% increase in weekly pneumonia cases.
- Both associations were statistically significant.
Conclusions:
- Increased average temperature and relative humidity significantly elevate M. pneumoniae pneumonia cases.
- Findings suggest weather plays a notable role in the epidemiology of this respiratory infection.
- Public health strategies may need to consider climate factors for pneumonia prevention.
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