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Epidemiology and Clinical Impact of Mycoplasma pneumoniae in an Italian Pediatric Center: An Observational Study from

Marco Bianchi1, Mara Pisani2, Lara Ricotta3

  • 1From the Pediatric Unit, NESMOS Department, Faculty of Medicine & Psychology, Sant'Andrea University Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome.

The Pediatric Infectious Disease Journal
|September 18, 2025
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Pediatric Mycoplasma pneumoniae (MP) infections nearly doubled post-pandemic, but clinical severity remained stable. Ongoing surveillance is crucial for managing these common respiratory infections in children.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Infectious Diseases
  • Epidemiology
  • Respiratory Medicine

Background:

  • Mycoplasma pneumoniae (MP) is a frequent cause of pediatric lower respiratory tract infections.
  • A significant decline in MP infections was noted during the COVID-19 pandemic, followed by a resurgence in some regions.
  • This study investigates MP infection trends and clinical features in Italian children between 2017 and 2024.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the epidemiological shifts in pediatric Mycoplasma pneumoniae infections.
  • To compare the clinical characteristics and severity of MP infections before, during, and after the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • To inform clinical management and public health strategies for MP infections.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective, single-center study of immunocompetent pediatric patients (30 days to 17 years) hospitalized with confirmed MP infection.
  • Data analysis across three periods: prepandemic (2017-2019), pandemic (2020-2022), and postpandemic (2023-2024).
  • Comparison of incidence rates, clinical, laboratory, and radiological data over time.

Main Results:

  • The proportion of MP among pediatric respiratory infection hospitalizations nearly doubled from 2019 (3.2%) to 2024 (6.1%).
  • Despite increased incidence, respiratory support needs remained stable (25.7% overall).
  • Pediatric intensive care admissions and median hospital stay were consistent across periods.

Conclusions:

  • Postpandemic pediatric MP incidence has significantly increased.
  • Clinical severity of MP infections has remained comparable to prepandemic levels.
  • Continuous epidemiologic surveillance is vital for understanding MP dynamics and guiding effective management.
Keywords:
COVID-19childrenepidemiologyresurgence

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