Delhi at Risk! 7 Cases of Pneumonia Linked to China Surface at AIIMS
Lancet Micro Report Reveals Concerns Over Pneumonia Cases Emerging in Delhi with Ties to China
- AIIMS registers 7 cases of pneumonia related to M. pneumoniae, believed to have originated in China.
- Tests conducted at AIIMS through PCR and IGIM Elisa revealed positive results, indicating the presence of Mycoplasma pneumoniae.
- The positive rate for PCR and IGIM Elisa tests was 3% and 16%, respectively.
A recent report published in Lancet Micro highlights the emergence of pneumonia cases in Delhi, with a connection traced back to China. According to the report, the cases were identified through PCR testing in the initial phase of infection, with six cases confirmed through IGIM Elisa testing, a process that may be repeated in subsequent phases.
AIIMS Delhi has recorded seven cases of pneumonia associated with M. pneumoniae, and these instances have come to light between April and September this year. Upon investigation, the bacterium Mycoplasma pneumoniae was identified as linked to this respiratory illness.
The positive rate for PCR and IGIM Elisa tests was reported at 3% and 16%, respectively. Dr. Ram Choudhary, former head of the Microbiology Department at AIIMS and a member of the consortium, stated that community pneumonia cases are often attributed to M. pneumoniae, accounting for 15-20% of such cases. He noted that pneumonia caused by this virus is generally mild, referred to as "choking pneumonia," but can also take a severe form.
Dr. Choudhary emphasized the need to increase surveillance to detect cases of Mycoplasma pneumoniae in India. Currently, attention is primarily focused on AIIMS and a few other centers in Delhi. The Lancet report suggests that countries experiencing a resurgence of M. pneumoniae cases are approaching pre-pandemic levels.
In conclusion, the Lancet Micro report underscores the importance of monitoring and addressing the rise in pneumonia cases associated with Mycoplasma pneumoniae in Delhi, urging a comprehensive and vigilant approach to tackle potential health risks.