SARS-CoV-2 pandemic non-pharmacologic interventions temporally associated with reduced pediatric infections due to Mycoplasma pneumoniae and co-infecting respiratory viruses in Arkansas

Abstract

Non-pharmacologic interventions (NPIs) effectively curtailed the spread of SARS-CoV-2 and, fortuitously, many other aerosol-transmitted respiratory pathogens. This study included the largest data set of symptomatic, pediatric patients from within the United States spanning a period from November 2017 through December 2023, and encompassed individuals residing in both rural and urban settings. We observed a strong correlation between the implementation and cessation of NPIs with the rate of respiratory infections due to Mycoplasma pneumoniae and viral co-infections. These infections are returning to baseline levels approximately 2 years following NPI cessation. This observation was not unexpected since the replication time for viruses is exponentially faster than that of bacteria. The resurgence of M. pneumoniae and likely other atypical bacterial pathogens is currently in process. Healthcare providers should strongly consider these pathogens in individuals presenting with respiratory tract illnesses.