How long does it take for a positive Mycoplasma pneumoniae to turn negative?

  Mycoplasma pneumoniae infections usually take about 2-4 weeks to be completely eradicated before the mycoplasma test results turn negative.  A positive Mycoplasma pneumoniae test indicates a mycoplasma infection in the body. The time for mycoplasma to turn negative depends on the severity of the patient’s condition, individual circumstances, treatment and other factors, and cannot be generalized. Usually, mild Mycoplasma pneumoniae infections can heal on their own with autoimmunity, which takes about 2-3 weeks. For severe Mycoplasma pneumoniae infections, treatment under medical supervision is required. The commonly used antibiotics are macrolides, including azithromycin and roxithromycin. With aggressive anti-infective treatment, Mycoplasma pneumoniae can also be turned negative usually in about 3-4 weeks. In addition, for immunocompromised patients, such as the elderly, infants and young children, appropriate care should be done while turning negative to avoid recurrence of the disease.  In the case of mycoplasma pneumonia, early antibiotics are generally recommended to reduce symptoms and shorten the course of the disease. During treatment, attention should be paid to keeping warm, drinking plenty of water, avoiding getting cold, and avoiding irritating foods.