Can't say how lethal it is...there's always a possibility that a chicken can die from respiratory disease (or 1000s of other things).
Treating symptoms is about all you can do.
IF it's Mycoplasma, then an antibiotic can help with
symptoms chickens will still be carriers and can relapse during times of stress.
As mentioned above - you can try your vet to see if they have anything you can use to start treatment ASAP, if not, then you will need to order medication online which may take longer or may not be available. Antibiotics are hard to find, so if you can find it is stock, then usually it's best to get it.
Denagard (Tiamulin),
Tylan (Tylosin) or Tetracycline/Oxy/Doxy can be used for Mycoplasma.
In the meantime...post some photos of the hens, their poop too.
Try to keep them hydrated, provide good ventilation and encourage them to eat.