Is bronchitis contagious?

Is bronchitis contagious? It depends. Keep reading to learn when it can be contagious – and for how long.

Author: Norton Healthcare

Published: February 3, 2025

Estimated reading time: 4 minutes

Bronchitis is a common respiratory condition that can cause a cough that lingers for several weeks. As a result, you might wonder: Is bronchitis contagious? The answer depends on several factors. 

What causes bronchitis?

Bronchitis occurs when the bronchial tubes, which are the tiny openings that carry air to and from your lungs, become inflamed. This can cause coughing, mucus production, chest discomfort and shortness of breath. Bronchitis can be caused by:

Respiratory infection: Viral infections, including the common cold, influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) or COVID-19, can develop into acute bronchitis.

Bacterial infection: Although it is less common, bacteria sometimes can lead to bronchitis.

Environmental irritants: Chronic exposure to tobacco smoke, air pollution, dust, chemical fumes or other allergy triggers can lead to chronic bronchitis, which is a type of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
 

Is bronchitis contagious? 

There are two main types of bronchitis, acute bronchitis and chronic bronchitis.

Acute bronchitis is a short-term condition, often resulting from a respiratory infection. It can last several weeks and usually is caused by viruses that are contagious, such as the flu or common cold. While bronchitis itself is not a contagious condition, the viruses or bacteria that cause it can be spread from person to person. These germs can be passed to others through the respiratory droplets that are released when someone coughs, sneezes or talks, or by touching contaminated surfaces. 

“Anyone who has contracted a respiratory illness is generally contagious for a day or two before symptoms occur, at the onset of their symptoms, and for several days thereafter,” said Joshua H. Brandon, M.D., family medicine physician with Norton Community Medical Associates primary care. “Generally, the lingering and persistent cough often associated with bronchitis is no longer contagious after symptoms have been present for more than a week. If a doctor determines you have bacterial bronchitis, the infection generally stops being contagious 24 hours after starting antibiotics.”

Chronic bronchitis involves ongoing inflammation and mucus production in the airways. Chronic bronchitis is not contagious, because it is not caused by a viral infection; it is caused by exposure to irritants. It can last for several months or more and may require ongoing treatment to manage symptoms.

How to prevent bronchitis

To reduce the risk of bronchitis, take proper precautions around people who are sick and always practice good hygiene. Frequently wash your hands with soap and water; cough or sneeze into a tissue or your elbow (instead of your hand); regularly disinfect surfaces, especially high-touch areas like phones, handles and doorknobs; and get vaccinated. 

Annual flu shots and other recommended immunizations can reduce your risk of severe symptoms, which include the respiratory symptoms that can develop into bronchitis. Other healthy habits, such as avoiding smoking and managing asthma or allergy triggers, also can help prevent bronchitis.

When to call the doctor for bronchitis symptoms

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, many cases of bronchitis resolve on their own, without antibiotics. However, seek prompt medical attention if you experience:

  • A persistent cough lasting more than three weeks
  • A high fever (above 100.4 F) 
  • Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
  • Blood in mucus
  • Chest pain or tightness
  • Worsening symptoms, if you have a chronic condition like asthma or COPD

If you or a loved one is experiencing bronchitis symptoms, don’t hesitate to reach out to your health care provider or schedule a visit through Norton Now. They can rule out more serious conditions, like pneumonia, and ensure proper bronchitis treatment.

Norton Now covers your urgent care needs at Norton Immediate Care Centers, primary care offices and Norton Prompt Care clinics, and via Norton eCare telemedicine. Need help scheduling? Book now or call (502) 629-1234, option 3.