The four confirmed cases of Mycoplasma pneumoniae, also known as "walking pneumonia", are not new, the Department of Health said.

"The DOH wishes to clarify and emphasize that the detected cases are not new," the department said in a statement released late Tuesday.

"Only four (0.08%) of the confirmed ILI cases from January up to November 25, 2023, were due to M. pneumoniae or 'Walking Pneumonia,'" it added.

The Health department said that all of the confirmed cases which were reported in January, July, and September, have recovered.

"More than half of confirmed ILI cases were due to other well-known and commonly detected pathogens," it said.

"We have medicines that can treat M. pneumoniae; and we can easily prevent its transmission," it added.

According to the department, Mycoplasma pneumonia is a "known and common pathogen."

"It causes different infections, including colds and pneumonia," it explained.

"It is one of the influenza-like illnesses (ILls), which presents as fever, sore throat, and cough," it added.

It continued: "Younger children may have cold-like symptoms."

The department said that while all age groups can be affected, those with weak immune systems and living in closed settings are "at higher risk for more severe disease."
It also stressed that "Filipino doctors and medical personnel in our hospitals can treat M. pneumonia and have the medicines for it."

The DoH reminded the public to regularly wash their hands, wear masks, ensure adequate ventilation, and keep their vaccinations up to date to prevent transmission of M. pneumoniae and other respiratory pathogens.