Is bronchiectasis contagious?

Bronchiectasis describes airways that have become widened or damaged and therefore clear mucus less effectively. You cannot catch the airway damage from a family member, classmate or colleague. The cough and phlegm associated with it are symptoms, not proof that the condition is spreading.

Some respiratory infections can pass through droplets, hands or shared surfaces, depending on the organism. That possibility is separate from bronchiectasis itself. A clinician can explain whether a child's or adult's current infection needs extra precautions.

Follow the person's prescribed airway-clearance and infection plan. Cover coughs, wash hands, avoid sharing cups or utensils during an acute respiratory illness, and stay home from close-contact activities when fever or significant symptoms make that sensible. Do not stop treatment because you are worried about catching bronchiectasis.

Arrange review for a persistent [Cough](/symptoms/cough/) or changes in [Coughing Up Phlegm](/symptoms/coughing-up-phlegm/). Testing may include a [Chest X-Ray](/treatments/diagnostics-and-screening/chest-x-ray/) or [Spirometry](/treatments/diagnostics-and-screening/spirometry/).

Get urgent help for severe breathing difficulty, blue or grey lips, confusion, fainting, or coughing a large amount of blood. Contact a clinician promptly if fever, breathlessness, chest discomfort or phlegm worsens, especially in someone already diagnosed with bronchiectasis.

Ask whether the current infection could spread, which hygiene steps are useful, when school or work can resume, and how to recognise a bronchiectasis flare.