Several children in Ohio have been hospitalized after suffering from mysterious pneumonia-like illness. It is another outbreak similar to China. Warren County officials recorded 142 pediatric cases of what is called white lung syndrome in Ohio since August, crossing the County average, as per the Ohio Department of Health.
Although concern regarding this outbreak in the US has emerged, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have said that nationally, there is nothing unusual occurring. Health Authorities are checking the cause of this outbreak but don’t identify it to be a respiratory disease. Instead, they think of a combination of common viruses affecting individuals at the same time.
A bacterial lung infection, called mycoplasma pneumonia has been diagnosed in patients. Those patients are of 8 years old and some are as young as 3. Bacterial respiratory infection can resurface periodically, often after waves of flu or other viral infections.
According to one hypothesis, pandemic-related measures like mask mandates, lockdowns, and school closures may have weakened the immune system of children, making them more vulnerable to seasonal infections.
What is White Lung Syndrome?
White lung syndrome is not a medical term, it is a name given by health officials. It is a type of pneumonia that results in inflammation of the lungs. Currently, it has been spread among children.
What are White Lung Syndrome Symptoms?
The symptoms of white lung syndrome include coughing, fatigue, chest pain, loss of appetite, wheezing, and fever. In some cases, one can experience breath shortness and phlegm, a specific kind of mucus that starts in the throat and lungs.
How to Prevent White Lung Pneumonia?
White pneumonia can be prevented by washing hands frequently, covering mouth while coughing or sneezing, and maintaining social distance when sick, by staying at home. According to senior researcher Hanne-Dorthe Emborg at Statens Serum Institute (SSI), cases of white lung syndrome are not unusual. He also said that the cases are common in children because of weakened immune systems because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
What Causes White Lung Pneumonia?
There are some causes of white lung pneumonia:
Viral infection
Viral infection is the most common cause of white lung pneumonia, which includes viruses like COVID-19, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and influenza.
Bacterial infection
bacterial infection is less common as compared to viral infections, but can still cause white lung pneumonia. Examples include sepsis and pneumonia.
Autoimmune diseases
These are illnesses in which the immune system of the body attacks healthy tissues.
Inhaling harmful substances
It can include inhaling fumes, dust, or chemicals.
Fungal Infections
These are rare but can occur in those who have weak immune systems.
What Treatment is Available to Treat White Lung Syndrome?
The treatment for white lung syndrome is based on the underlying causes. In some cases, antiviral medications or antibiotics may be prescribed. In severe cases, mechanical ventilation or oxygen therapy may be required. By following these tips, you can prevent white lung syndrome and other respiratory illnesses.
Conclusion
Now that you know what white lung syndrome is, how it is caused, and possible preventive measures. Moreover, continue getting such updates on health by subscribing to Personal Care N Heal.
