A member asked:

Are diabetic foot ulcers contagious?

22 doctors weighed in across 8 answers
Dr. Latisha Smith answered

Specializes in Wound care

Only if infected: Diabetic foot ulcers happen becauese of poor circulation or numbness in the foot. Neither of these problems is contagious. However, if a foot ulcer started draining pus this would indicate a secondary infection. Infections are definitely contagious, spread from 1 person to the next by contact with the drainage on clothing or wound dressings. Good handwashing prevents spread.

Answered 10/3/2016

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Dr. Ellen Wenzel answered

Specializes in Podiatry

No: This is not a process that is contagious.

Answered 9/28/2016

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No: No you cannot catch a diabetic foot ulcer.

Answered 3/5/2014

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Dr. Payam Rafat answered

Specializes in Podiatry

No: Diabetic foot ulcer are not contagious. Infection from the wound however may be contageous if one is directly exposed to the wound and does not have good hand washing habits.

Answered 2/7/2013

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Dr. Scott Bolhack answered

Specializes in Wound care

Diabetic ulcers: Diabetic ulcers are not contagious. You must have diabetes in order to get a diabetic foot ulceration.

Answered 7/27/2015

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No: But without appropriate treatment, they can potentially get much worse.

Answered 5/5/2016

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Not by any: Means..... They are dangerous though, and one should not attempt to treat them by themselves.

Answered 11/1/2019

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They are not...: Hello, Diabetic foot ulcers are not contagious and not everyone with diabetes will obtain one. With proper glucose control and timely/monitored footcare they can be avoided. The vascular and nerve status in the lower extremity are also important to prevent their formation. Shoe gear is also important for prevention. Be sure to be vigilant with any callus, cut, blister, or bruises in the feet.

Answered 1/25/2018

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