You can't spread shingles to others. But people who haven't had chickenpox before could catch chickenpox from you. Tonsillitis itself isn't contagious, but the viruses that cause it are. The length of time you're infectious will depend on the virus. Page last reviewed: 13 November Next review due: 13 November Home Common health questions Infections Back to Infections.
How long is someone infectious after a viral infection? The infectious period often begins before you start to feel unwell or notice a rash.
Bronchitis The length of time that bronchitis is infectious varies, depending on its cause. Chickenpox Chickenpox is infectious from 2 days before the spots appear to until they have crusted over, usually 5 days after they first appeared. Your sneezing, sniffling nose, and watery eyes might not be contagious at all. If they happen at certain times of the year like spring and they stick around for a few weeks or months, you could have allergies.
Allergies can be triggered by irritants in your environment such as:. Shop for antihistamines. Most respiratory infections clear up within a few days. Stay home until you feel better. Also, hold off on returning to work if your treatments are causing side effects such as excessive drowsiness. You might have a bacterial infection that needs treatment with an antibiotic.
Learn more about the ways you can treat a stuffy nose, or nasal congestion, at home, including tips on decongestants, humidifiers, and steam remedies. Steam inhalers are used as personal saunas for skin care or supporting respiratory health. We created a list of steam inhalers to suit your needs. You may have heard that you can sweat out a cold, but is this an effective remedy? Learn more here. Typically, postnasal drip can be alleviated at home. Try these remedies and OTC products to relieve your symptoms.
Salt water gargles are touted as an effective and easy home remedy for a sore throat. We explain why, plus additional benefits.
Can apple cider vinegar be used for colds? We explain the benefits of apple cider vinegar, and what the science says about it treating the common cold. What does research say about whether you should exercise with a cold?
Learn what you should and shouldn't do, and how you can help yourself recover…. For example, a cough is often a reflex to help bring up mucus containing the virus in question, Tania Elliott , M. When a virus enters your system, it can take up to 72 hours for your body to rev up and mount this response.
Barring complications, symptoms usually taper out as time goes on. Similarly, most people get progressively less contagious the further they are from the initial infection. All told, most people are contagious for about a week, according to the U. National Library of Medicine. However, it can be easier for people with compromised immune systems, such as babies, the elderly, and those with illnesses that affect their immunity , to pick up infections.
SELF does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. An ounce of prevention. Tags: Expert Advice. Cold and Flu. Popular Categories. Popular Topics. Women's Health.
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