Cases aren't tracked by public health
Cases of walking pneumonia have been increasing in Kingston and across Canada and the U.S. for months.
The Whig reports local doctors are reporting more patients with this mild form of pneumonia, which is caused by the bacteria Mycoplasma pneumoniae.
Walking pneumonia often causes a cough, fever, headache, and chest pain, but it usually doesn't require hospitalization. The illness is part of a natural cycle, with cases typically rising every three to seven years before declining.
Doctors in the Kingston area are seeing more cases, but tracking has been difficult, as walking pneumonia is not a reportable disease like COVID-19, influenza, or RSV. Public health does not monitor its spread in the same way.
As this trend continues, medical professionals across the country are noticing the rise, which is expected to last for several more months. Residents are urged to monitor their symptoms and consult a doctor if needed.
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