Q: Is Mycoplasma Pneumonia Still Contagious After a 5-Day Hospital Stay?

Medically reviewed by Sang Hyun Ahn, MD

This post is a dramatization of a question and answer session experienced by our actual medical reviewers. Please note that this content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.

Question:

My child's fever is now controlled, and they are about to be discharged after spending five days in the hospital for Mycoplasma pneumonia. I am worried about whether the infection is still contagious because I have a younger child at home. How careful do I need to be?

Answer:

I am glad to hear that your child's fever has subsided after five days of treatment for Mycoplasma pneumonia.

Regarding its contagiousness, Mycoplasma spreads through respiratory droplets. Fortunately, the contagiousness drops significantly 48 to 72 hours after starting appropriate antibiotic treatment. Since your child has been treated in the hospital for five days, the risk of transmitting the infection is now quite low.

However, to protect your second child, it is still best to follow these precautions:

• Have the recovering child wear a mask for 3 to 5 days after discharge.

• Ensure thorough and frequent handwashing, especially after coughing or sneezing.

• Use separate eating utensils, cups, and towels.

• Avoid having the children share the same room, if possible.

• Ventilate the house frequently by opening windows.

You should also monitor your second child closely. Watch for the following signs:

• Fever, cough, or phlegm

• Headache or sore throat

• Loss of appetite or unusual fatigue

Please note that Mycoplasma has a relatively long incubation period of 1 to 3 weeks. Therefore, it is entirely possible that your second child was already exposed to the bacteria before the first child was hospitalized. If you notice any of these symptoms developing in your younger child, consult your pediatrician promptly for early evaluation and treatment. Wishing your recovering child a smooth return to full health!

For extra peace of mind and clear guidance when tracking your child's symptoms, the FeverCoach app is always there to help.

https://fevercoach.us