Customer question:
How long is angina contagious? Anonymous customer's question
Pharmacist's answer:
Generally, angina is most contagious in the first few days after the infection begins, when symptoms are most pronounced. In streptococcal angina, infectivity is most significant, especially during the first 2 to 3 days of antibiotic treatment or 24 to 48 hours after the start of treatment if antibiotics are not used. The risk of transmitting the infection to others is also the highest. Also, check more about angina pectoris.
Once antibiotic treatment is started and symptoms improve, contagiousness gradually decreases. Nevertheless, it is recommended that appropriate hygiene measures be followed during the treatment and a few days after the end of the treatment to prevent possible contamination and the spread of infection.
How long after the treatment of angina can we still be contagious?
After treatment of angina with appropriate antibiotics is usually no longer contagious, the exact time when a person is no longer contagious can vary depending on several factors, including the type of infection, the severity of symptoms, and the individual's immune response.
In bacterial angina, isolation and treatment with appropriate antibiotics are usually recommended for at least 24 to 48 hours after the start of treatment to reduce the risk of further spread of the infection. After this time, the person is usually less likely to be still contagious. However, continued adherence to proper hygiene, such as regular hand washing, is recommended to prevent possible contamination and spread of infection.
With viral angina or other types of angina, the length of time a person is no longer contagious depends on how quickly symptoms subside and how quickly the immune system responds to the infection. As a rule, a person is less contagious with viral angina when the symptoms disappear. Still, caution and following hygiene measures are recommended for a few days afterward to prevent the spread of the infection.
Can we prevent the transmission of angina to the newborn during breastfeeding?
If you have angina or suspect you have an infection, there are some steps you can take to reduce your risk of passing it on. While breastfeeding, wash your hands thoroughly with warm water and soap and dry them before each contact with the baby. You can also use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. If possible, wear a protective mask while breastfeeding to reduce the risk of passing the infection to the baby.
Avoid direct saliva contact with the baby, for example, by kissing or using the same feeding utensils. Regularly clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces such as doorknobs, light switches, and bathroom surfaces. If you have symptoms of angina or other infections and are breastfeeding, also consult your doctor. He can prescribe appropriate treatment and advise you on preventing the infection from being passed on to your baby.
Are children more susceptible to angina?
Children usually have less developed immune systems than adults, which increases their susceptibility to infections, including angina. They often stay in environments where many other children, such as schools, kindergartens, or playhouses, where respiratory droplets efficiently transmit the infection. This can increase the risk of exposure to bacteria or viruses that cause angina. Children are still learning essential hygiene habits, such as washing their hands and covering their mouths and noses when coughing or sneezing. This can increase the risk of spreading infections among children.
How long is viral angina contagious?
Generally, viral angina is most contagious in the first few days after the infection begins, when symptoms are most pronounced. The risk of transmitting the infection to others is also the highest. Contagiousness usually decreases as symptoms begin to improve. Proper hygiene measures during the treatment of viral angina are essential, such as regular hand washing, avoiding close contact with other people, covering the nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, and avoiding sharing personal items such as cups, cutlery, or towels.
Interesting reading: Streptococcal Angina contagiousness
Interesting reading: Is angina contagious?
