Ongoing increase of Mycoplasma pneumoniae-infections in Norway

In the end of November 2011 Mycoplasma pneumoniae was observed in 10 to 25% of laboratory samples in different parts of Norway. It is expected that the levels of infection are high during the winter. Due to this increase there is a shortage of erythromycin in Norway. Epidemic increase of the infection is observed every 4 to 6 years.

An increase of Mycoplasma pneumoniae infections, which started in 2010, is also observed in Denmark and Sweden.

Mycoplasma pneumoniae can cause upper and lower respiratory tract infections and cause symptoms such as cough, mild fever, headache, sore throat and muscle aches. Pneumonia occurs in 10% of cases. Mycoplasma pneumonia infection can cause rash and ear complications. Asymptomatic cases can occur mostly among children.