Is A Child With Bronchitis Contagious?

Bronchitis in the acute form is a condition commonly seen in children. It arises as a result of inflammation of the bronchial tubes which transports air to and from the lungs. Bronchitis in children usually occurs as a result of a viral infection which is characterized by flu symptoms, cold, running nose, infecting the bronchial tubes. The infection results in the airways getting swollen and obstructed causing productive cough.

In some cases, certain bacterial infections may also cause bronchitis in children along with allergies and environmental factors like fumes, smoke, and dust. Bronchitis in children occurs more often in the winter seasons and the symptoms exhibited by the child may include vomiting with coughing, problems with breathing, and tightness in the chest. The child may also complain of headaches.

It should be noted that bronchitis only affects children above three years of age. Infants and toddlers only very rarely get affected by Bronchitis. The question arises whether a child with bronchitis is contagious or not.

The answer to this question is yes, a child with bronchitis can spread the infection to other children. This is the case with acute forms of bronchitis which is normally caused by a viral infection. The virus that has caused the child bronchitis may spread to other children by droplets of sputum or coughing.

The virus causing bronchitis may also spread by using the clothing and utensils of the child as the virus may have lodged in the lining of the clothing or over the utensils and may infiltrate the body of an otherwise healthy child causing that child to have bronchitis as well. Thus, it is advised that if a child is diagnosed with bronchitis, the parents need to teach the child to cover the mouth with a handkerchief while coughing and not to share their clothing, spoons, or other utensils with their siblings or other children.

In conclusion, a child with bronchitis can spread the virus which caused the bronchitis in the first place to other children by way of coughing or droplets of sputum through which the offending virus may infiltrate the body of the child and cause inflammation of bronchial tubes resulting in bronchitis.

Hence it is highly recommended that if a child has been diagnosed with acute bronchitis then the child should be taught to cover the mouth while coughing so as not to spread the infection to other children which may result in them having Bronchitis.

Also Read:

• Bronchitis: How do You Get Bronchial Infection & What is its Treatment?
• Prevention of Bronchitis in Children & its Home Remedies
• How Long Does Bronchitis Last & What To Take For It?
• Is Bronchitis Contagious & How Can You Prevent It?
• Bronchitis Vs Pneumonia: Differences Based on Types, Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, Prevention, Duration, Prevalence
• Can Acute Bronchitis Go Away On Its Own?
• 7 Ways To Get Rid Of Bronchitis Naturally
• How Is The Body Affected By Bronchitis?
• Can Bronchitis Affect Pregnancy?