Is viral bronchiolitis contagious?

Bronchiolitis is an infection and swelling of the smallest airways, most often in babies and young children. A child may pass the virus to another person before the breathing symptoms are obvious. Transmission is more likely when people share a room, touch the same toys, or have contact with mucus from the nose or mouth. The illness may begin like a cold, then develop into cough, fast or difficult breathing, wheezing, reduced feeding or tiredness. A cough can remain after the child starts to improve.

Keep the child away from babies, older adults and people with weakened immunity while they are unwell. Wash hands with soap and water after wiping the nose, coughing, feeding or changing nappies. Clean frequently touched objects, avoid sharing cups and towels, and improve airflow indoors. Do not send a child with active symptoms to nursery or school until they are well enough to take part. Support rest and regular fluids or feeds; a clinician may advise additional care if breathing or feeding becomes difficult.

Seek urgent medical help if the child is struggling to breathe, has pauses in breathing, looks blue or grey around the lips, is unusually difficult to wake, or cannot take enough fluid. Arrange prompt assessment if breathing is getting faster, the child has fewer wet nappies, or symptoms are worsening rather than settling. A child health consultation can help assess breathing, hydration and the need for observation.

Ask how long the child should stay away from nursery, which breathing changes need urgent help, and how to monitor feeds and wet nappies at home.