Is pneumonia and bronchitis contagious? patient is a gentleman in his seventies.

Yes : Yes they are both contagious. The person in question does not need to be quarantined however precautions should be taken. Avoid close contact especially if the person is coughing; hand washing is important for the person in question and anyone around that person, also unaffected persons should avoid touching their eyes, mouth, and nose since they can touch objects that are contaminated and inadvertently contaminate themselves. It is also important to note that the virus or bacteria causing pneumonia and bronchitis in one person could cause varying illness in another (i.E causing a common cold). Take care.

In general,: yes. How contagious depends on the specific bacteria, virus, or fungus involved, and other factors.