This autumn, many Russians report a stubborn cough that lingers long after a cold has passed. Prolonged symptoms after an illness can stem from a mutated coronavirus, pertussis, allergies, or the spread of mycoplasma bacteria, according to immunologist Vladimir Bolibok, speaking on the 360 TV channel.
The physician noted that a persistent cough could be due to a new Covid subtype or another infection. In particular, he mentioned Mycoplasma pneumoniae as a possible culprit that has circulated in parts of China in the past.
He recalled that a notable spread of this mycoplasma occurred in Russia during the late 1990s to early 2000s. Testing now might reveal its presence again if people with long-lasting coughs are checked, Bolibok suggested.
Bolibok also cautioned that the chance of a new, unknown viral disease remains low. He reminded readers that cough is a common symptom of whooping cough, which is relatively straightforward to diagnose with a throat swab and blood antibody tests.
The immunologist pointed to mold exposure as another potential trigger. He explained that autumn weather can heighten this risk: the season arrived early, leaves stayed damp on the ground, and mold and fungal spores increased in the air.
He added that sensitive individuals may naturally develop a cough in these conditions—yet a medical visit is advised if the cough persists.
Residents are reminded that this autumn has seen a rise in calls about unusual, prolonged respiratory illness. Many report feeling unusually fatigued, losing their voice for several days, and struggling to shake a long cough.
Public health officials noted an uptick in ARVI, influenza, and COVID-19 cases across age groups toward the end of November, underscoring the importance of medical evaluation for persistent symptoms.
Experts emphasize that distinguishing among these possibilities requires careful assessment, including medical history, testing for respiratory pathogens, and consideration of environmental factors. The message remains clear: anyone with a cough that lasts beyond a few weeks should seek professional guidance to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment. [Attribution: 360 TV]