Ministry of Health. — VNA/VNS Photo

HÀ NỘI — The Ministry of Health (MoH) is closely following reports of a mysterious respiratory illness emerging in Russia, with initial assessments pointing to Mycoplasma bacterial infections in some cases.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the MoH's Department of Preventive Medicine said it had recently detected reports of clusters of an unidentified illness in Russia through its event-based surveillance system, which monitors international news and social media channels.

According to foreign online news reports from March 31, patients initially experienced symptoms resembling seasonal illness such as tiredness, muscle aches and general exhaustion.

However, symptoms reportedly worsened after three to four days, with many developing high fever, up to 39 degrees Celsius.

Many of the affected individuals have reportedly tested negative for both COVID-19 and seasonal influenza. The exact cause of the illness remains unclear.

The Department of Preventive Medicine has contacted the World Health Organization (WHO) office in Việt Nam to verify the reports. Preliminary information from WHO’s International Health Regulations focal point in Europe suggests that some cases have been linked to Mycoplasma, a type of bacteria known to cause respiratory tract infections.

WHO is said to be working with Russian health authorities to gather further details.

Mycoplasma infections can damage the mucous membranes of the throat, windpipe and lungs. The bacteria are typically spread via tiny droplets released when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The illness is treatable with antibiotics.

The Department of Preventive Medicine said it is actively monitoring the situation and public health measures being implemented in Russia. It pledged to maintain close coordination with WHO and Russian authorities to ensure timely updates and transparent information sharing.

The Ministry has called on the public to stay informed through official channels and not to panic, while also advising continued vigilance, especially during the seasonal transition period when respiratory diseases are more likely to spread. — VNS