Is bronchitis contagious?

Yes: Inflammation of the bronchial tubes caused by either viruses or bacteria is contagious.

Possibly...: Acute bronchitis can be contagious since the bacteria or virus causing it can be aerosolized w/ cough or sneeze. If the infected person touches their nose and shakes your hand shortly after, it can be passed that way. Chronic bronchitis, a form of copd, is caused by airway inflammation usually due to smoking and is not contagious.

Bronchitis: Bronchitis is defined as an inflammation of the bronchial tubes of the respiratory infection. Cough is the predominant symptom. Usually this is self-limiting and will heal completely on its own. Most infections are viral although bacterial infections can cause bronchitis as well. Contrary to popular belief antibiotics are not always necessary. It is just as contagious as any viral infection.

Depends...: Acute bronchitis is contagious via airway droplets from coughing and sneezing whereas chronic bronchitis, a form of copd, is not contagious but is usually the result of smoking.

Can be : If it is an infectious bronchitis depending on what the infectious etiology is the bug can be passed on to others through coughing. It can also be passed on through contact which highlights the importance of frequent hand washing. A mask is recommended if concern is present.

Not directly: Bronchitis, though frequently treated with antibiotics, is almost always caused by a viral infection. The virus is usually transmissible just like a cold, but the people who catch it, though they may get sick, won't necessarily get bronchitis.

Can be...: Acute bronchitis is caused by either bacteria or viruses and these organisms can be aerosolized w/coughing/sneezing or spread via hand contact (ex. Infected person touches their nose and you shake their hand shortly afterwards!) chronic bronchitis is not contagious as it is a form of COPD and results from airway inflammation due to smoking (usually).