East Central Reporter

State Representative Adam Niemerg shared information about walking pneumonia, stating, "Here's what you should know," in an October 25 Facebook post.

"Walking pneumonia is becoming more common in Illinois children in 2024," said Adam M Niemerg, State Representative for 102nd District (R), according to Facebook. "Here's what you should know."

According to his Facebook post, Niemerg shared a link to a 25 News report on a specific strain of walking pneumonia that has become more common in children this year. The news report indicates that this strain usually affects children over the age of eight, although there has been an increase in cases among children under six with severe symptoms. In April 2024, the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) reported a 1% positive case rate for walking pneumonia. This month, the positive case rate is 20%, according to the 25 News report. Doctors have not identified a specific reason for the increase in cases.

Screenshot of State Rep. Adam Niemerg's Oct. 25 Facebook post | State Representative Adam Niemerg Facebook page

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is also recording an increase in respiratory infections caused by Mycoplasma pneumoniae. On October 18, the CDC's National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases reported that it is tracking the rise in this infection, reaching out to healthcare providers and health departments, and monitoring for antibiotic resistance. According to the CDC, there are approximately 2 million infections of M. pneumoniae annually, and it re-emerged in 2023. From March 31 through October 5, 2024, there has been an increase across all age groups, with the highest incidence among children.

Symptoms of walking pneumonia include chest cold symptoms, fatigue, fever, headache, and a worsening cough. Additional symptoms may include fever and chills, shortness of breath, and fatigue. For young children under five years old, symptoms may differ and include diarrhea, sneezing, sore throat, stuffy or runny nose, wheezing, or vomiting.

Niemerg was first elected in 2020. He describes himself as a "fiscal conservative focused on reducing taxes and fighting for limited government and pension reform," according to his official biography. He works as a senior claims adjuster with Country Financial and holds a bachelor's degree from Eastern Illinois University.