Is bronchitis contagious? I’m especially curious about the different types of bronchitis, acute vs. chronic, and how that affects contagiousness. Does the contagiousness depend on whether it’s caused by a virus or bacteria? If it is contagious, how long am I contagious for, and what precautions should I take to avoid spreading it to my family and coworkers?
Answer
Bronchitis can be contagious, depending on the cause. There are two main types of bronchitis: acute and chronic. Acute bronchitis is often caused by a viral infection, such as the common cold or the flu, and in these cases, it is contagious. Less commonly, acute bronchitis can be caused by a bacterial infection, which is also contagious. Chronic bronchitis, on the other hand, is usually caused by long-term irritation of the bronchial tubes, such as from smoking, and is not contagious.
When acute bronchitis is caused by a virus or bacteria, it can spread through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes, talks, or even breathes. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs.
The contagiousness of acute bronchitis typically lasts for as long as the causative virus or bacteria is present in the body. This period usually coincides with the duration of the acute symptoms, such as cough, sore throat, and runny nose. Once the symptoms start to subside, the person is generally less contagious. However, it’s important to note that some individuals may still be contagious even after they start feeling better.
Specific viruses and bacteria that can cause contagious bronchitis include:
- Viruses: Rhinovirus, influenza viruses (A and B), adenovirus, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), coronavirus (including those that cause the common cold and, rarely, SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19).
- Bacteria: Mycoplasma pneumoniae, Chlamydia pneumoniae, Bordetella pertussis (whooping cough, which can cause bronchitis), Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae.
Preventive measures to reduce the spread of contagious bronchitis include:
- Frequent handwashing: Washing hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
- Covering coughs and sneezes: Using a tissue or the elbow to cover the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
- Avoiding close contact: Staying away from people who are sick and avoiding close contact with others when you are sick.
- Wearing a mask: Wearing a mask in public settings, especially when respiratory viruses are circulating.
- Vaccination: Getting vaccinated against influenza and, if appropriate, pneumococcal pneumonia can help prevent bronchitis caused by these infections.
In summary, acute bronchitis caused by viruses or bacteria is contagious and spreads through respiratory droplets. Chronic bronchitis is not contagious. Taking preventive measures can help reduce the risk of spreading or contracting contagious bronchitis.