Mycoplasma Ear Infection

Mycoplasma infections are incredibly contagious and are most commonly spread among people younger than 40, especially in school-aged children. Mycoplasma ear infections are a rarely seen symptom of walking pneumonia and are a middle ear infection caused by the mycoplasma pneumoniae bacteria. Infections are spread by contact of nose and throat droplets of infected people, usually when they cough or sneeze.

Facts

• Mycoplasma ear infections are a symptom of the mycoplasma pneumonia respiratory illness and widespread community outbreaks may occur in intervals of four to eight years, the New York State Department of Health reports. The contagious period for mycoplasma infections is generally less than 10 days but may last longer.

Risk Factors

• According to New York State, these infections are most common among older children and young adults. While there are no identifiable risk factors, people most at risk live or work in crowded conditions, such as schools and homeless shelters, points out Medline Plus. These infections are most commonly spread during late summer and fall.

Symptoms

• Mild symptoms may appear between one to three weeks after exposure to the infection and develop slowly over two to four days and may become more severe in some people. Ear infections are a less commonly seen symptom of mycoplasma pneumonia, states Medline Plus. Common symptoms include fever, cough, bronchitis, sore throat, headache and tiredness. Symptoms can last a few days to over a month.

Treatment

• Topical ciprofloxacin is only possible for individuals with pneumatic tubes currently in place as the antibiotic liquid passes through ear tubes, according to Pediatric Planet. Homeopathic and herbal treatments have also been used and should be discussed with your health care provider. Amoxicillin and other antibiotics are the preferred method of treatment as they reduce the spread of bacterial infection, says Pediatric Planet. However, treatment of mild symptoms isn't always necessary. Medline Plus recommends "rest, drinking plenty of fluids, and eating foods high in protein."

Considerations

• Immunity to mycoplasma infections does commonly occur after the initial infection, but it isn't known how long the immunity lasts. The second infection usually isn't as severe. No vaccines are currently available to prevent the spread of mycoplasma infections. Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze to help prevent mycoplasma infections.