Genetic factors driving the <i>Mycoplasma pneumoniae</i> outbreak among children post-COVID-19 in China: a whole genome analysis.

Abstract

<i>Mycoplasma pneumoniae (M. pneumoniae)</i> is a leading cause of community-acquired pneumonia in children. Post-COVID-19, a significant resurgence of <i>M. pneumoniae</i> infections has been observed in China, but whole-genome analyses on the genetic mechanisms driving this resurgence remain limited. We performed whole-genome sequencing on 169 <i>M. pneumoniae</i> isolates from Beijing and Baoding, collected before and after COVID-19. All <i>M. pneumoniae</i> genomes from GenBank were included for analysis. Genotypes were identified using multilocus variable-number tandem-repeat analysis (MLVA), multilocus sequence typing (MLST), phylogenetic analysis. Genomic conservation and transmission patterns were assessed via SNP distance. We identified a post-COVID-19 resurgence of <i>M. pneumoniae</i> infections among children, with infection rates peaking at 60%-70% in late 2023, higher than during the pandemic (10%-20%) and pre-pandemic (∼30%). Genomic analysis revealed distinct genotypes, with T1-2 (4-5-7-2) dominating in Beijing, and both T1-2 and T2-2 (3-5-6-2) prevalent in Baoding. Minimal SNP distances and genomic conservation indicated rapid spread of <i>M. pneumoniae</i>. Genomic analysis uncovered key genetic factors driving the outbreak: near-100% macrolide resistance and increased prevalence of the 4-5-7-2 genotype (enriched in virulence and metabolism-related genes). This study provides a comprehensive genomic analysis of genetic factors driving the outbreak. With near-100% macrolide resistance in China, urgent changes in treatment policies are needed. The rising prevalence of 4-5-7-2 and its functional advantages warrant close monitoring. Our findings offer insights into the outbreak causes and guide future prevention and control strategies. National Key R&D Program of China; Training Plan for High level Public Health Technical Talents.