Illinois county health departments are issuing a public alert concerning reports of an outbreak of pneumonia – Mycoplasma.

A news release from the Kankakee County Health Department states there’s documentation of an outbreak of what’s called M pneumonia in the state. Officials say the infections are most common among young adults and school aged children. Most cases are mild, but some can be severe.

The Health Department says M Pneumonia causes both upper and lower respiratory infections and about 10 percent of children with an infection get a rash. There is no vaccine for M Pneumonia, experts suggest hand washing, covering coughs and sneezes and staying home when you’re ill.

Reach out to the health department with questions --- (Kristen) 815-802-9400 ext 323.

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